Hit Me Right In The Feels: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
July 19, 2023

"Hit me right in the feels" is a colloquial expression used to describe an emotional reaction to something particularly touching or moving. The phrase is a contemporary idiom predominantly used in internet culture, implying a strong emotional impact, often related to feelings of nostalgia, sadness, happiness, or empathy. This expression is mainly used when someone encounters a story, image, video, or event that deeply touches their emotions.

In short:

  • The idiom “hit me right in the feels” means to induce an emotional reaction in someone. 
  • When you use this idiom, you're saying that something has caused you to react strongly.
  • It implies that something is relatable, touching, or moving on a deep level. 

What Does "Hit Me Right in the Feels" Mean?

"Hit me right in the feels" is a colloquial expression that describes a situation or experience that evokes strong emotions. A speaker may say this in response to something that is particularly poignant or moving, such as a heartwarming story or a sad scene in a movie. The word “feels” is a slang term for feelings or emotions.

Let's unpack its core meanings and usage:

  • "Hit me right in the feels" conveys that something has profoundly affected your emotions. For instance, if you watch a movie that deeply resonates with you, making you cry or feel a significant emotional response, you might say that the movie "hit you right in the feels."
  • It often expresses an unexpected, sudden, or overpowering emotional reaction. If you see an image or video that unexpectedly stirs up strong emotions within you, this phrase would be appropriate to use.
  • Similar phrases to "hit me right in the feels" include "struck a chord," "touched my heart," "made me emotional," and "resonated with me deeply."

Where Does "Hit Me Right in the Feels" Come From?

The phrase "hit me right in the feels" originated from internet culture, particularly within online communities such as Reddit, Tumblr, and various social media platforms. The phrase uses "feels," a slang term for feelings, to communicate strong emotional reactions. This idiom encapsulates the open expression of emotion that has become more prevalent in digital communication.

10 Examples of "Hit Me Right in the Feels" in Sentences

To better understand the idiom's usage, let's examine its use in various contexts:

  • My shy daughter's glow-up photo hit me right in the feels.
  • The series' final episode hit me right in the feels; I couldn't stop crying.
  • I thought it would be a reunion party full of laughter until the gag gift hit me right in the feels.
  • The picture of the old man and his dog hit me right in the feels.
  • I feel you, bro. That song hits me in the feels every time I hear it.
  • When you said, “How may I help you?” with such kindness, it hit me right in the feels.
  • The powerful scene from the book hit me right in the feels, leaving me in tears.
  • It hit me right in the feels when he talked about his struggles and overcoming them.
  • You are God's gift to mankind, and the story of your sacrifices hit me right in the feels.
  • Thanks so much for your thoughtful gift. It hit me right in the feels.

Examples of "Hit Me Right in the Feels" in Pop Culture

The phrase "hit me right in the feels" usually appears in media, depicting a strong emotional reaction to a situation, event, or content.

Let's explore some instances:

  • The phrase gave rise to the "right in the feels" meme. This meme typically features an image, video, or text that elicits an emotional response. Accompanied by a caption such as "right in the feels" or other variations of the phrase, the meme effectively conveys its sentiment.
  • A quote from the 2014 book Push Girl: A Novel by Chelsie Hill, ‎Jessica Love: "Mentioning him would get Amanda right in the feels."
  • Another book that uses the phrase is Mr. Right Swipe by Ricki Schultz: "I think of Quinn and the car, and a pang of guilt hits me right in the feels, but I spare him that little shit show for now."

Other/Different Ways to Say "Hit Me Right in the Feels"

There are various other expressions that convey a similar sentiment to "hit me right in the feels."

Here are some of them:

  • Struck a chord with me
  • Resonated with me
  • Touched my heart
  • Made me emotional
  • Moved me deeply
  • Pulled at my heartstrings
  • Provoked a strong emotional response
  • Stirred up my emotions
  • Had a powerful impact on me

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Hit Me Right in the Feels":

  • What does "hit me right in the feels" mean?

"Hit me right in the feels" is a modern colloquial phrase meaning that something has caused a strong emotional reaction or impact.

  • How can I use "hit me right in the feels" in a sentence?

You can use the phrase to express a strong emotional response to something. For instance, "The movie's ending really hit me right in the feels."

  • Where does the idiom "hit me right in the feels" come from?

The phrase "hit me right in the feels" is rooted in internet culture, used to express strong emotional reactions, often in response to media or personal experiences.

  • Is the phrase "hit me right in the feels" formal or informal?

The phrase "hit me right in the feels" is informal and mostly used in casual conversation, especially in online communication.

  • Is the phrase gender-specific?

No, "hit me right in the feels" can be used by people of any gender to express their emotions.

  • Can "hit me right in the feels" be used to express both positive and negative emotions?

Yes, the phrase "hit me right in the feels" can be used to express any strong emotion, whether it's happiness, sadness, nostalgia, or any other intense feeling.

  • Is "hit me right in the feels" an exaggeration?

Not necessarily. While the phrase "hit me right in the feels" can sometimes be used for dramatic effect, it's often used sincerely to express a strong emotional response.

  • What are some alternatives to "hit me right in the feels"?

Some alternatives include "struck a chord with me," "resonated with me," "touched my heart," "moved me deeply," and "pulled at my heartstrings."

  • Can I use it in professional or formal writing?

Generally, "hit me right in the feels" is seen as informal and is best suited to casual conversation, social media, or informal writing. It's not usually used in professional or formal writing.

  • Can I use it in any tense?

Yes, "hit me right in the feels" can be used in different tenses, though its form will change slightly depending on the tense. For example, in the past tense it would be "hit me right in the feels," but in the future tense it might be "will hit me right in the feels."

Final Thoughts About 'Hit Me Right in the Feels'

"Hit me right in the feels" refers to a sudden and intense emotional response. The phrase emphasizes the impact, unexpectedness, and relatability of an emotional experience.

In summary:

  • The idiom represents a sudden, profound emotional impact, often induced by a piece of content or a situation.
  • It originated in online communities and social media platforms in the early 2010s.
  • It's versatile and applicable in various contexts to express a wide range of emotions.
  • Alternative expressions include "tugged at my heartstrings," "gave me all the feels," and "stirred up my emotions."
  • Usage examples demonstrate how the phrase can describe both positive and negative emotions in different situations.

Whether it's a film, a story, a song, or even an event, if it tugs at your heartstrings, it's hit you right in the feels.

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