"Plays heartstrings" is a phrase often used to describe something that evokes strong emotions. There are many synonyms for this phrase, including "tugs at the heart," "pulls at the heartstrings," "moves the soul," "stirs the emotions," and "touches the heart." These phrases all imply that something has deeply affected us emotionally, whether it be a piece of music, a work of art, or a touching story. It is important to have a variety of ways to express our emotional responses, as it allows us to more accurately convey our feelings in any given situation.