boo-boo
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A minor, often silly or embarrassing mistake: A "boo-boo" is a small error, blunder, or faux pas. It is typically used in informal, lighthearted contexts and often implies the mistake is more humorous or trivial than serious. 2. (Childish) A minor injury, such as a scrape or cut: In language directed at or used by young children, "boo-boo" can also refer to a small hurt. Note: This meaning is listed for completeness but is a distinct, separate usage from the primary definition of "an embarrassing mistake."
Usage Examples
- Noun (Mistake):
- I made a little boo-boo in the report and had to send a corrected version.
- Calling the client by the wrong name was a real boo-boo.
- Don't worry about that boo-boo; everyone makes them sometimes.
Advanced Usage
- "To make a boo-boo": This is the most common collocation for using the word.
- The presenter made a boo-boo by forgetting the guest's name on live TV.
Variants and Related Words
- Boo (interjection): A sound made to express disapproval or to frighten someone, often shouted at performances. This is a different word with a different origin and meaning, though it shares a phonetic similarity.
- Boo-hoo (interjection/verb): An onomatopoeic word representing the sound of crying. This is a separate, distinct word.
Synonyms
- Blunder: A careless or stupid mistake.
- Faux pas: A socially awkward or tactless act.
- Gaffe: An unintentional act or remark causing embarrassment.
- Slip-up: A minor or careless mistake.
Notes on Usage
- Register: "Boo-boo" is informal and conversational. It is not suitable for formal or academic writing.
- Connotation: It usually carries a gentle, forgiving, or slightly amused tone. Using "boo-boo" often minimizes the seriousness of the error.
- Primary Meaning: In standard adult conversation, "boo-boo" almost exclusively refers to a minor mistake, not an injury. The "injury" meaning is considered baby talk or child-directed speech.
Noun
- an embarrassing mistake