John Bull
/'dʤɔn'bul/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Proper noun 1. A personification of England or the typical Englishman: "John Bull" is a national personification of England or the United Kingdom, often depicted as a stout, honest, plain-dealing country gentleman. 2. A man of English descent: Used to refer to an Englishman, especially one considered to be typically English in character.
Usage Examples
- Proper noun:
- In political cartoons, John Bull is often shown wearing a Union Jack waistcoat.
- He was a true John Bull, with his love for tradition and a good cup of tea.
Advanced Usage
- "The spirit of John Bull": Refers to the perceived national character of England, such as robustness, independence, and pragmatism.
- The policy was defended with the traditional spirit of John Bull.
Variants and Related Words
- John Bullism (noun): The characteristics or attitudes attributed to John Bull; English patriotism or nationalism.
- His speech was full of old-fashioned John Bullism.
Synonyms
- Briton: A native or inhabitant of Great Britain.
- Englishman: A man born in England or of English descent.
Related Idioms
- "John Bull's other island": A phrase sometimes used to refer to Ireland, particularly in a historical or political context.
- The play dealt with the complex relationship between England and John Bull's other island.
Noun
- a man of English descent