刺さる

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: Written 刺さる and read ささる, it means a pointed object becoming embedded and figuratively words striking a person deeply.
• Basic usage: It covers a thorn stuck in a finger and frank words that continue to resonate emotionally.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Physical penetration versus emotional impact
  • With speech it is a metaphor for a strong personal effect, not a literal wound.