Idioms & Phrases – Choose the option that best explains the meaning. Sentence: The old man was “cut to the quick” when his rich son refused to recognise him.

Introduction / Context:
“Cut to the quick” is an idiom describing a state of profound emotional pain, as if one had been cut to the living flesh (“quick”). In the sentence, the father experiences deep hurt when denied recognition by his affluent son—a context of strong humiliation and sorrow rather than mild annoyance or mere surprise.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Idiom: “cut to the quick.”
• Trigger: a son refusing to recognise his father.
• We seek the option expressing intense emotional hurt.

Concept / Approach:
The core of the idiom is intensity of pain. Therefore, the precise paraphrase is “hurt intensely.” Alternatives like “annoyed” or “irritated” suggest trivial discomfort and do not fit the gravity of the scenario. “Surprised” misses the emotional wound completely.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute: “The old man was hurt intensely …” The sentence remains coherent and faithful to idiomatic usage.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• surprised: No pain implied.
• annoyed/irritated: Too mild for the context and idiom.

Common Pitfalls:
Underestimating the strength of idiomatic expressions that describe emotional states. “Cut to the quick” is at the strong end of the spectrum.

Final Answer:
hurt intensely