tender spot
Where it hurts
A tender spot is a place on the body that hurts when touched or pressed, often indicating injury or inflammation: The doctor found a tender spot on my lower back.
Figuratively, it's a sensitive subject or emotional vulnerability—something that provokes a strong reaction when mentioned: His failed marriage is still a tender spot.
- sorePainful or annoyed
- sore pointTender emotional topic
- bruiseDiscolored tissue injury
- bruised egoHurt self-regard
- achePersistent dull discomfort
open wound · wound · sensitive · raw · raw nerve · vulnerable · weak point · pain · pressure · pressure point · touch · flinch · wince · nerve · touch a nerve · hit a nerve · hurt · emotional
tender spotstrong suit
One's greatest ability
strength · comfort zone · thick skin · armor
tender spotstrong point
Natural area of advantage
fortified position · solid ground · bulwark · stronghold · solid foundation
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