耳みみの痛いたい

expression, noun-modifying (irregular)

painfully true; hitting home; making one's ears burn

Describes a remark, criticism, or truth that is so accurate it stings. Often used when someone points out a fault one is aware of but doesn't want to hear. Compare with 耳が痛い, which is the predicative form.

See also: 耳が痛い

• 彼かれの耳みみの痛いたい指し摘てきに、思おもわずうつむいた。

  I couldn't help but look down at his painfully true remark.

• 耳みみの痛いたい話はなしだけど、聞きいておいたほうがいいよ。

  It's a hard truth to hear, but you'd better listen.