close to home
Meaning
Emotionally personal or sensitive because it relates directly to you or your life.
Origin
From the literal idea of something being near oneβs house or local area; it developed a figurative sense of being near to oneβs personal experience, making it feel more affecting.
Notes
Often used when a comment, joke, or criticism feels personal or touches a sensitive area because it relates to your own situation; neutral to slightly serious tone.
Examples
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Her comments about workplace burnout hit close to home for me.
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The documentary about addiction struck close to home because my brother struggled with it.
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When the coach criticized our lack of teamwork, it felt a little too close to home.
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His joke about being late all the time was close to home, so I didnβt laugh.
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The article on rising rent prices is close to home for anyone trying to live in this city.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used as an adjective phrase after a linking verb: βIt hits/feels close to home,β βThatβs close to home.β Can modify a noun: βa close-to-home story.β
Synonyms
- hit home
- strike a chord
- touch a nerve
- near the bone
Antonyms
- distant
- impersonal
- unrelated
- abstract