catch/touch somebody on the raw

catch (one) on the raw

To do or say something (such as mentioning a sensitive topic) that causes one to feel agitated or self-conscious; to touch a nerve. Primarily heard in UK. I accidentally caught Vanessa on the raw by mentioning her new haircut—apparently, she's really unhappy with it.

See also: catch, on, raw

touch (one) on the raw

To do or say something (such as mentioning a sensitive topic) that causes one to feel agitated or self-conscious; to touch a nerve. Primarily heard in UK. I accidentally touched Vanessa on the raw by mentioning her new haircut—apparently, she's really unhappy with it.

See also: on, raw, touch

catch/touch somebody on the ˈraw

(British English) upset somebody by reminding them of something they are particularly sensitive about: She touched him on the raw by criticizing his driving.

See also: catch, on, raw, somebody, touch