Hit a sour note Meaning in English
expression
释义
To do or say something that disrupts the mood, creates a negative impression, or makes a situation uncomfortable—sometimes literally playing a wrong note, but more often used figuratively.
用法与细微差别
Figurative use is much more common than literal. Used in social, professional, or artistic contexts to mean something that disturbs harmony. Typical with 'hit a sour note with...' or 'the comment hit a sour note.' Not formal or slang—neutral.
例句
Her joke hit a sour note at the party.
basic
His comment really hit a sour note during the meeting.
basic
The speech hit a sour note with the audience.
basic
Everything was going well until he hit a sour note and mentioned politics.
natural
That question really hit a sour note with the guests.
natural
You really hit a sour note bringing that up now.
natural