Top 46 Slang For Hurt One%27S Feelings – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing emotions, sometimes words can cut deeper than we’d like. Discover the latest slang terms that capture the essence of feeling hurt and emotionally wounded in our curated list. Whether you’ve experienced these feelings firsthand or simply want to stay in the know, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to slang for hurting one’s feelings.

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1. Burned

To be “burned” means to be insulted or humiliated by someone’s words or actions. It can leave a person feeling hurt or embarrassed.

For example, if someone makes a joke at your expense and it stings, you might say, “Ouch, I got burned.”
In a heated argument, one person might say something hurtful to the other, causing them to respond, “You really burned me with that comment.”
If someone shares an embarrassing story about you in front of others, you might feel burned and say, “That was a low blow, you really burned me there.”

2. Cut

To “cut” someone means to reject them or make them feel excluded. It is often used when someone is intentionally left out or ignored by a group.

For instance, if a group of friends plans a hangout and purposely doesn’t invite someone, that person might feel cut.
In a workplace setting, if colleagues form a clique and don’t include others in their social activities, those left out might say, “I feel cut by my coworkers.”
If someone tries to join a conversation but is met with silence or dismissive responses, they might feel cut and say, “Wow, I’ve never felt so cut before.”

3. Dissed

To be “dissed” is to be disrespected or treated in a derogatory manner. It often involves someone belittling or insulting another person.

For example, if someone makes a sarcastic comment about your appearance, you might feel dissed and respond, “That was really uncalled for.”
In a social setting, if someone ignores your presence or dismisses your opinions, you might say, “I feel constantly dissed by that group.”
If someone intentionally undermines your achievements or mocks your efforts, you might feel dissed and say, “I’m tired of being dissed by people who don’t appreciate my hard work.”

4. Slammed

To be “slammed” means to be criticized or attacked harshly, often with little regard for the other person’s feelings. It can leave a person feeling hurt, attacked, or overwhelmed.

For instance, if someone receives a scathing review of their work, they might feel slammed and say, “I can’t believe they tore me apart like that.”
In a debate or argument, if someone aggressively attacks your beliefs or character, you might feel slammed and respond, “You’re just trying to slam me instead of having a productive discussion.”
If someone publicly shames or humiliates you, causing emotional distress, you might feel slammed and say, “They really slammed me in front of everyone, and it’s hard to recover from that.”

5. Zinged

To be “zinged” means to be playfully insulted or teased in a lighthearted manner. It is often done among friends or in a joking context.

For example, if someone makes a clever, witty comment at your expense, you might laugh and say, “Nice zing!”
In a friendly banter, if someone makes a quick, humorous remark that catches you off guard, you might respond, “Ouch, you really zinged me there.”
If someone playfully mocks your fashion choices or taste in music, you might say, “Okay, you got me with that zing. Well played.”

6. Dragged

When someone is “dragged,” it means that they have been publicly humiliated or criticized, often on social media.

For example, “She got dragged on Twitter for her controversial comments.”
In a discussion about online bullying, someone might say, “It’s important to remember that behind every screen is a real person who can be deeply hurt by being dragged.”
A celebrity who has been the target of online criticism might say, “I’ve learned to brush off the haters and not let myself get dragged down by their negativity.”

7. Schooled

When someone is “schooled,” it means that they have been taught a lesson or corrected, often in a humiliating or condescending manner.

For instance, “He thought he knew everything about politics, but she schooled him with her extensive knowledge.”
In a debate, one person might say, “I’m about to school you on the facts.”
A teacher might say to a student, “You need to pay attention in class if you don’t want to get schooled on the test.”

8. Trolled

To “troll” someone means to provoke or harass them online, often by posting inflammatory or offensive comments with the intention of getting a reaction.

For example, “He trolled her Instagram post with rude comments.”
In a discussion about online behavior, someone might say, “Don’t feed the trolls – they thrive on attention.”
A victim of online trolling might share their experience, saying, “I’ve been trolled so many times, it’s hard not to take it personally.”

9. Shot down

When someone’s idea or proposal is “shot down,” it means that it has been rejected or dismissed, often in a blunt or harsh manner.

For instance, “He presented his plan to the team, but it was quickly shot down.”
In a brainstorming session, someone might say, “Let’s not be too quick to shoot down ideas – we need to consider all possibilities.”
A person who has had their ideas consistently rejected might say, “I’m tired of always being shot down – it’s discouraging.”

10. Put down

To “put down” someone means to belittle or criticize them, often in a demeaning or derogatory manner.

For example, “She constantly puts down her younger sister, making her feel inferior.”
In a discussion about healthy relationships, someone might say, “It’s important to lift each other up instead of putting each other down.”
A person who has been consistently put down might share their experience, saying, “His constant put-downs have really affected my self-esteem.”

11. Stung

When someone feels stung, it means that their feelings have been hurt or they have been emotionally affected by something.

For example, “Her harsh words really stung me.”
A person might say, “I was stung by his rejection.”
Someone might express, “It stung when my friend didn’t invite me to the party.”

12. Gut-punched

To feel gut-punched is to be emotionally devastated or deeply hurt by something.

For instance, “When I found out about the betrayal, I felt gut-punched.”
A person might say, “Her words hit me like a gut-punch.”
Someone might express, “I was gut-punched when I didn’t get the job I wanted.”

13. Torn down

When someone is torn down, it means that their self-esteem or confidence has been greatly diminished or destroyed.

For example, “Her constant criticism really tore me down.”
A person might say, “I felt torn down after the rejection.”
Someone might express, “Being constantly belittled can tear a person down.”

14. Burn

To burn someone means to insult or humiliate them, often in a clever or witty way.

For instance, “He really burned me with his sarcastic comment.”
A person might say, “Her words were a burn to my ego.”
Someone might express, “I can’t believe he burned me like that in front of everyone.”

15. Diss

To diss someone is to show disrespect or disregard for them, often through words or actions.

For example, “He dissed me in front of all our friends.”
A person might say, “Her constant dissing is getting on my nerves.”
Someone might express, “I felt so hurt when she dissed my ideas during the meeting.”

16. Shade

Shade is a term used when someone subtly insults or disrespects another person. It is often done in a way that is not overt or direct, but still conveys a negative message.

For example, “She threw shade at me by making a sarcastic comment about my outfit.”
In a conversation about a celebrity feud, someone might say, “They’ve been throwing shade at each other on social media.”
Another usage could be, “He always throws shade at his coworkers during meetings, making snide remarks about their work.”

17. Roast

To roast someone means to publicly mock or criticize them, usually in a humorous and light-hearted manner. It is often done among friends or in a comedic setting.

For instance, “They organized a roast for their friend’s birthday, where everyone took turns making jokes about him.”
During a comedy show, a comedian might say, “I’m going to roast this audience member, so get ready for some laughs.”
A group of friends might playfully roast each other by making funny comments about their quirks or habits.

18. Cut deep

To cut deep means to hurt someone’s feelings deeply or to say something that has a profound emotional impact on them. It implies that the words or actions have caused significant emotional pain.

For example, “Her comment about my appearance really cut deep.”
In a conversation about a breakup, someone might say, “His words during the argument cut deep and I still haven’t fully recovered.”
Another usage could be, “When he said I was a failure, it really cut deep because I had been struggling with self-doubt.”

19. Hit below the belt

To hit below the belt means to attack someone in a way that is unfair or cruel. It refers to using tactics or words that go beyond what is considered acceptable or fair in a disagreement or argument.

For instance, “Bringing up her past mistakes during the argument was hitting below the belt.”
In a discussion about sportsmanship, someone might say, “Trash-talking is fine, but personal insults are hitting below the belt.”
A person might admit, “I regret hitting below the belt during our argument. It crossed a line and I hurt their feelings.”

20. Crush

To crush someone means to make them feel extremely disappointed or humiliated. It is often used when someone’s hopes or expectations are shattered, leaving them feeling defeated or deflated.

For example, “Not getting the job offer crushed him, as he had put so much effort into the application.”
In a conversation about a sports match, someone might say, “Losing by such a large margin really crushed the team’s spirits.”
Another usage could be, “Her rejection letter from her dream college crushed her, as she had worked hard to meet their requirements.”

21. Dig

To dig is to make a cutting or hurtful remark towards someone, often with the intention of causing emotional pain. It is a slang term for insulting or belittling someone.

For example, “She really dug into him for his poor performance.”
In a heated argument, one might say, “I can’t believe you would dig at me like that.”
A person might express their hurt by saying, “His words really dug deep and hurt my feelings.”

22. Slap in the face

A slap in the face refers to an action or statement that is deeply hurtful, often seen as a betrayal or a disrespectful act. It is a figurative expression used to describe a situation where someone’s feelings are severely hurt.

For instance, “When she spread those rumors about me, it felt like a slap in the face.”
A person might say, “Being excluded from the party was a real slap in the face.”
Someone might describe their disappointment by saying, “After all I did for him, his lack of gratitude was like a slap in the face.”

23. Twist the knife

To twist the knife means to deliberately make someone’s emotional pain or hurt feelings worse. It is a metaphorical expression that signifies adding insult to injury or prolonging someone’s suffering.

For example, “She already knew I was upset, but she had to twist the knife by mocking me.”
In a difficult situation, someone might say, “He didn’t just criticize my work, he twisted the knife by questioning my abilities.”
A person might express their frustration by saying, “Every time we argue, he finds a way to twist the knife and make me feel even worse.”

24. Kick someone when they’re down

To kick someone when they’re down means to take advantage of someone’s vulnerability or misfortune, often by further hurting their feelings or worsening their situation. It is a figurative expression that implies adding insult to injury.

For instance, “Instead of offering support, she chose to kick me when I was down.”
In a challenging moment, someone might say, “I can’t believe you would kick me when I’m already struggling.”
A person might express their disappointment by saying, “It’s like they were just waiting for an opportunity to kick me when I was down.”

25. Crush someone’s spirit

To crush someone’s spirit means to deeply hurt or demoralize them, often by damaging their self-esteem or enthusiasm. It is a figurative expression used to describe an action or situation that severely diminishes someone’s emotional well-being.

For example, “Constant criticism can crush a person’s spirit and make them lose confidence.”
In a difficult situation, someone might say, “His rejection letter really crushed my spirit.”
A person might express their emotional pain by saying, “After experiencing failure after failure, my spirit is completely crushed.”

26. Heartbroken

When someone is heartbroken, they are deeply saddened or devastated emotionally. It often refers to a romantic relationship that has ended or experienced a significant setback.

For example, “She was heartbroken when her long-term boyfriend broke up with her.”
Another example, “After failing the audition, he felt heartbroken and doubted his abilities.”
A person might say, “I’ve never seen her so heartbroken before. She really loved him.”

27. Sore spot

A sore spot refers to a sensitive topic or issue that can easily hurt someone’s feelings or make them uncomfortable. It is something that should be approached with caution and sensitivity.

For instance, “Bringing up his failed business venture is a sore spot for him.”
In a discussion about personal boundaries, one might say, “It’s important to respect someone’s sore spots and avoid triggering them.”
A person might mention, “Talking about her weight is a sore spot for her. It’s best to avoid that subject.”

28. Bruised ego

A bruised ego refers to someone’s hurt pride or self-esteem. It occurs when someone’s confidence or sense of self-worth is damaged or diminished.

For example, “Losing the competition bruised his ego and made him question his abilities.”
Another example, “Being criticized in front of his colleagues bruised his ego and made him feel embarrassed.”
A person might say, “He has a fragile ego and can’t handle any criticism.”

29. Touched a nerve

When something or someone touches a nerve, it means they have triggered a sensitive or emotional response. It often refers to a topic or comment that strikes a deep emotional chord or brings up painful memories.

For instance, “Her comment about his past mistakes really touched a nerve and made him defensive.”
In a discussion about sensitive subjects, one might say, “Be careful with your words, you don’t want to touch a nerve.”
A person might mention, “Bringing up their childhood trauma always touches a nerve. It’s best to avoid that topic.”

30. Struck a chord

When something or someone strikes a chord, it means they have resonated emotionally with someone. It often refers to a statement, action, or situation that deeply connects with someone’s feelings or experiences.

For example, “Her story about overcoming adversity really struck a chord with the audience.”
Another example, “The movie’s portrayal of loss and grief struck a chord with many viewers.”
A person might say, “His words of encouragement really struck a chord with me and gave me the motivation to keep going.”

31. Pierced

When someone’s feelings are “pierced,” it means that they have been deeply hurt or emotionally wounded. This term is often used to describe a situation where someone’s words or actions have had a significant negative impact on another person’s emotions.

For example, “Her harsh comments pierced his heart and left him feeling devastated.”
In a discussion about the effects of bullying, someone might say, “Being constantly teased and ridiculed can pierce a person’s self-esteem.”
A person might describe a breakup as, “It felt like he pierced my soul when he ended our relationship.”

32. Tore down

To “tear someone down” means to emotionally dismantle or break them apart. This slang term is often used to describe situations where someone’s words or actions have caused significant emotional damage or destroyed someone’s self-esteem.

For instance, “Her constant criticism tore him down and made him question his worth.”
In a discussion about the impact of negative self-talk, someone might say, “Internalizing negative thoughts can tear a person down from the inside.”
A person might describe a toxic relationship as, “He slowly tore me down until I didn’t recognize myself anymore.”

33. Shattered

When someone’s feelings are “shattered,” it means that they have been completely broken or destroyed. This term is often used to describe a situation where someone’s emotions have been severely damaged, leaving them feeling devastated and fragmented.

For example, “The news of her betrayal shattered his trust and left him feeling empty.”
In a discussion about the impact of traumatic events, someone might say, “Experiencing a loss can shatter a person’s sense of security and stability.”
A person might describe a heartbreak as, “It felt like my world shattered into a million pieces when he left.”

34. Ripped apart

To “rip someone apart” emotionally means to tear them to pieces emotionally or mentally. This slang term is often used to describe situations where someone’s words or actions have caused significant emotional pain or anguish, leaving the person feeling completely torn apart.

For instance, “Her harsh criticism ripped him apart and left him questioning his worth.”
In a discussion about the effects of bullying, someone might say, “Being constantly attacked and belittled can rip a person apart from the inside.”
A person might describe a betrayal as, “It felt like he ripped my heart apart when he cheated on me.”

35. Crushed spirit

When someone’s spirit is “crushed,” it means that their soul or inner self has been broken or damaged. This term is often used to describe a situation where someone’s emotions or sense of self-worth have been severely impacted, leaving them feeling defeated and hopeless.

For example, “Constant rejection and failure can crush a person’s spirit and make them give up on their dreams.”
In a discussion about the effects of long-term abuse, someone might say, “Living in a toxic environment can crush a person’s spirit and make them lose their sense of self.”
A person might describe a traumatic event as, “The accident crushed my spirit and left me feeling broken and empty.”

36. Brokenhearted

When someone is brokenhearted, they are experiencing intense emotional pain, usually as a result of a romantic disappointment or loss. This term is often used to describe the feeling of having one’s heart metaphorically shattered.

For example, after a breakup, someone might say, “I’m completely brokenhearted right now.”
If a person is rejected by their crush, they might confide, “I feel so brokenhearted that they don’t feel the same way.”
When a relationship ends badly, someone might express, “I never thought I would be this brokenhearted over someone.”

37. Torn up inside

When someone is torn up inside, they are experiencing deep emotional turmoil or distress. This slang phrase is often used to describe the feeling of being emotionally shattered or torn apart.

For instance, after a betrayal, someone might say, “I feel so torn up inside, I don’t know who to trust anymore.”
If a person is dealing with a loss, they might express, “I’m torn up inside over the death of my loved one.”
When someone is going through a difficult time, they might confide, “I’m feeling really torn up inside right now.”

38. Deep cut

When something is described as a deep cut, it means that it has caused intense emotional pain or hurt. This slang term is often used to describe a comment, action, or event that deeply affects someone’s feelings.

For example, if someone says something hurtful about a person’s appearance, it can be described as a deep cut.
If someone is betrayed by a close friend, they might say, “That was a deep cut, I never expected them to do that to me.”
When someone experiences a painful breakup, they might express, “Their words during the breakup were a deep cut to my heart.”

39. Knocked down

When someone is knocked down, they are feeling emotionally defeated or demoralized. This slang term is often used to describe the feeling of being emotionally and mentally overwhelmed by a negative experience or situation.

For instance, after receiving multiple rejections, someone might say, “I’m so knocked down right now, I don’t know if I can keep going.”
If a person fails an important exam, they might express, “Failing that test really knocked me down.”
When someone experiences a series of setbacks, they might confide, “I feel so knocked down, it’s hard to see a way forward.”

40. Struck a blow

When someone strikes a blow, they are causing emotional harm or damage to someone else. This slang term is often used to describe actions or words that have a significant negative impact on someone’s feelings.

For example, if someone spreads a rumor about another person, they are striking a blow to their reputation.
If a person intentionally hurts someone they care about, they might say, “I didn’t mean to strike such a blow, I was just angry.”
When someone’s actions cause someone else to feel deeply hurt, they might express, “Their words really struck a blow, I can’t believe they would say that.”

41. Pierced heart

This phrase is used to describe a feeling of emotional pain or sadness that goes straight to the core of one’s being. It signifies a hurt that is so intense that it feels like a physical wound.

For example, “When my best friend betrayed me, it felt like a pierced heart.”
A person might say, “Her harsh words pierced my heart and left me feeling broken.”
In a poem or song, one might express, “Your absence leaves a pierced heart, a void that cannot be filled.”

42. Shook to the core

When someone is “shook to the core,” it means they have been deeply affected or emotionally impacted by something. It implies a strong emotional reaction that leaves a person feeling unsettled or disturbed.

For instance, “The news of her sudden death shook me to the core.”
A person might say, “The betrayal from my closest friend shook me to the core and made me question everything.”
After witnessing a traumatic event, one might express, “I was shook to the core and couldn’t sleep for days.”

43. Touched a raw nerve

When something “touches a raw nerve,” it means it has evoked a strong emotional response or sensitivity. It implies that the subject matter or action has hit upon a sensitive or vulnerable area, causing discomfort or distress.

For example, “Bringing up my past mistakes really touched a raw nerve.”
A person might say, “His insensitive comment about my appearance touched a raw nerve and made me feel self-conscious.”
When discussing a sensitive topic, someone might caution, “Be careful not to touch a raw nerve with your words.”

44. Stabbed in the back

To be “stabbed in the back” means to be betrayed by someone you trusted. It implies a sense of betrayal or treachery, often from a close friend or ally.

For instance, “I thought we were friends, but she stabbed me in the back by spreading rumors about me.”
A person might say, “Being stabbed in the back by a colleague I trusted was a painful experience.”
When cautioning someone about trusting others, one might say, “Watch your back, because people can stab you in it.”

45. Crushed dreams

When someone’s dreams are “crushed,” it means their hopes and aspirations have been completely shattered or destroyed. It signifies a deep disappointment and loss of faith in achieving one’s goals.

For example, “Failing the audition crushed her dreams of becoming an actress.”
A person might say, “Having to give up on my passion crushed my dreams.”
When discussing the impact of failure, one might express, “Crushed dreams can lead to a loss of motivation and self-esteem.”

46. Shattered confidence

When someone’s confidence is shattered, it means they have experienced a significant blow to their self-assurance or belief in themselves.

For example, a person who fails a crucial exam might say, “Failing that test really shattered my confidence.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might share, “I went through a difficult breakup that shattered my confidence, but I’ve been working on rebuilding it.”
A friend might offer support by saying, “Don’t worry, you’ll bounce back from this setback. Your shattered confidence will heal with time and effort.”