Be struck by/on/with somebody/something Definition 1 of 5Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact Use when something deeply moves you or provokes a strong emotional response. Visitors are often struck by the memorial's solemnity. Pro Tip 2/3Positive Surprise It often expresses a surprised admiration for something positive. She was struck by the children's quick learning ability. Pro Tip 3/3Sudden Realization When someone's qualities or a fact about them is noticed unexpectedly. I was struck by his resemblance to his father.