The idiom "cut someone to the quick" has its origin in the literal sense of the word "quick." In this context, "quick" refers to the sensitive, living flesh located at the base of fingernails and toenails. This living tissue is protected by the nail, and when it is exposed or damaged, it can be extremely painful. Over time, the term "quick" was used metaphorically to describe emotional pain or hurt. The phrase "cut to the quick" emerged as a way to convey the idea of causing deep emotional pain, much like the physical pain associated with injuring the sensitive tissue beneath a nail.

Définition et signification de « cut somebody to the quick » en anglais

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