Word of the Day: Wimp (noun & slang)
Possible Meanings (as a noun):
- A person who is timid, cowardly, or lacking in courage.
- Someone who is unwilling to stand up for themselves or take risks.
Possible Meanings (as a slang):
- A derogatory term for someone who is perceived as weak or ineffectual.
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Example Sentences (using it as a noun):
- The bully targeted the new student because he seemed like an easy wimp. (Explanation: Wimp is used as a noun to describe someone perceived as weak and unlikely to fight back.)
- He decided to stop being a wimp and finally ask out the girl of his dreams. (Explanation: Here, wimp refers to his lack of courage in asking someone out.)
- The movie’s hero was the opposite of a wimp – he was brave and decisive. (Explanation: Wimp is used as a contrast to highlight the hero’s courage.)
Example Sentences (using it as slang):
- “Don’t be such a wimp! That roller coaster isn’t even scary.” (Explanation: Wimp is used in a teasing way to encourage someone to overcome their fear.)
- She refused to let anyone call her a wimp – she was strong and independent. (Explanation: Here, wimp is a derogatory term used to try to belittle her.)
Note: “Wimp” can be a hurtful term, so it’s best to avoid using it unless you’re close friends with the person you’re talking to.
Conversation Example (using it as a noun):
Person 1: “I can’t believe John chickened out of giving his presentation.”
Person 2: “Yeah, he can be a bit of a wimp sometimes. But maybe he just needs some encouragement.”
Conversation Example (using it as slang – caution advised):
Person 1: “Hey, are you coming to play soccer with us?”
Person 2: “I don’t know, I’m not very good.”
Person 1: (teasingly) “Come on, don’t be a wimp! We just need another player.” (Explanation: Wimp is used playfully here, but it’s important to be aware of the context and the other person’s feelings.)
Can you use wimp in a sentence of your own? Share your example in the comments below.