Figuratively, remarks or criticism that hit close to home and are painfully true to the listener; to be painfully applicable.
上司に『もっと計画性を持て』と言われて、耳が痛かった。
When my boss told me 'be more organized,' it stung because it was true.
君の指摘は耳が痛いが、改善のために聞くべきだ。
Your criticism hits me hard, but I should listen to it to improve.
昔の失敗談を聞いて耳が痛くなる経験は誰にでもある。
Everyone has had the experience of wincing when hearing about past mistakes that apply to them.
Literally, having pain in the ear; earache caused by infection, inflammation, or other ear problems.
子どもが『耳が痛い』と言ったので、耳鼻科を受診した。
The child said 'my ear hurts,' so we took them to the ENT clinic.
飛行機の着陸で耳が痛くなることがある。
Your ears can hurt during an airplane's descent.