shrimpy
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: 1. (Especially of a person) Being of notably small or inferior size; undersized. This adjective is often used to describe a person who is physically small in a way that might be considered inadequate or less than average. It can carry a connotation of being puny or insignificant in stature.
Usage
- The word "shrimpy" is primarily used as a descriptive adjective.
- It is often applied to people, particularly in informal or slightly derogatory contexts to emphasize a lack of physical size or presence.
- It typically precedes the noun it modifies (attributive position) but can also follow a linking verb (predicative position).
Examples
- Attributive use (before a noun):
- The shrimpy kid was always picked last for the basketball team.
- He tried to act tough, but his shrimpy frame made it difficult to be intimidating.
- Predicative use (after a linking verb):
- Compared to his older brothers, the youngest one seemed rather shrimpy.
- Don't call him shrimpy; he's just young and still growing.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically beyond physical stature to imply insignificance or lack of impact in a non-physical domain, though this is less common.
- Their contribution to the project was pretty shrimpy compared to the main team's effort.
Variants and Related Words
- Shrimp (noun): The source word, referring to a small shellfish. When used informally for a person, it means a small or unimportant person.
- Shrimper (noun): A person or boat that catches shrimp.
Synonyms
- Puny
- Undersized
- Small
- Stunted
- Diminutive (less derogatory)
Antonyms
- Husky
- Burly
- Strapping
- Hulking
- Giant
Notes on Connotation
- Caution: While "shrimpy" is a standard English word, it is often considered informal and can be perceived as insulting or belittling when used to describe a person directly. It emphasizes inferiority in size. More neutral terms like "small" or "petite" are often preferred.
Adjective
- (used especially of persons) of inferior size