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

1. an embarrassing mistake