When writing, it's important to have a variety of synonyms at your disposal to avoid repetitive language. For the phrase "struck gently," there are several alternatives that convey a similar meaning with different nuances. For example, "tapped softly," "caressed lightly," "brushed tenderly," "stroked delicately," "palmed gently," "patted soothingly," and "flicked mellowly" are all options that can add depth and variety to your prose. Depending on the context, some synonyms may be more fitting than others, but it's always worth exploring all possibilities to find the perfect expression for your intended meaning.