The Village Idiom

close to home

The idiom "close to home" means when something directly or personally affects someone emotionally or distressingly, often because it touches on sensitive or personal topics.

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In a sentence

  • The movie about a deadly virus hitting close to home made me realize the importance of health and safety.
  • When she started talking about my personal issues in front of everyone, it hit close to home and made me feel uncomfortable.
  • The news of the recent natural disaster struck close to home as several of my neighbors were affected.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "close to home" is a common phrase used in the English language. It has a clear and straightforward meaning, relating to something that is personally or emotionally significant to an individual. The idiom is often used to describe situations or events that directly impact a person's life or well-being.

One fact about the idiom "close to home" is that it is a metaphorical expression. The word "home" in this idiom is not referring to a physical house but rather represents the emotional core or personal sphere of an individual. The idiom suggests that when something is close to home, it has a strong and immediate impact on a person's feelings or experiences.

The origin of the idiom "close to home" is unclear. The expression has been in use for centuries, and its exact origin cannot be pinpointed. It is a part of the idiomatic language and has evolved over time to become a commonly used phrase in modern English.

The idiom is often used in a wide range of contexts, both in spoken and written communication. It can be used to describe various situations, such as a news story that has a personal connection, an event that deeply affects someone's emotions, or a circumstance that hits close to one's personal life.

The idiom "at home" is closely related to "close to home." When something is described as being "at home," it means that it is comfortable, familiar, or well-suited to a person's preferences or abilities. This phrase emphasizes the sense of belonging and ease that comes from being in a familiar environment.

"Close in on" is another idiom that can be connected to "close to home." When someone says they are "close in on" a goal or target, it means they are getting closer to achieving it or reaching their desired outcome. This phrase implies a sense of progress and determination in pursuing a specific objective or result.

"Around the corner" is a phrase that is often used interchangeably with "close to home." It signifies that something is imminent or near in the future. When an event, opportunity, or change is described as being "around the corner," it means that it is just about to happen or become available in the near future.

The idiom "close to home" is a metaphorical expression that refers to something personally or emotionally significant to an individual. Its precise origin is unknown, but it has become a widely used phrase in the English language. The idiom is versatile and can be employed in various contexts to describe situations that have a direct impact or connection to a person's emotions or personal life. The phrase has a universal application and can be understood by English speakers everywhere. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its relevance in conveying the significance of personal and emotional attachments.

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