effeminacy
/i'feminəsi/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - The quality or state of having characteristics, mannerisms, or behaviors that are traditionally or stereotypically associated with women, often used in a derogatory way when describing a man. It implies a perceived lack of masculinity, such as softness, delicacy, or weakness.
Usage
The word "effeminacy" is a formal and often critical term. It is used to label a man's traits, appearance, or behavior as being unmanly or excessively feminine according to conventional gender stereotypes. Its use is frequently pejorative and can be offensive, as it reinforces rigid gender norms.
Examples
- The students associated science with masculinity and arts with effeminacy.
- Historical texts often accused rival cultures of effeminacy as a form of insult.
- He was criticized for his effeminacy, a judgment based solely on his gentle voice and refined manners.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Critique: In academic discussions, the concept of effeminacy is analyzed to understand the construction of gender roles and the historical stigmatization of traits deemed feminine.
- Literary Analysis: Characters may be described as possessing effeminacy to highlight their divergence from societal expectations of male behavior, often to create conflict or symbolize corruption.
Variants and Related Words
- Effeminate (adj): (Of a man) having or showing characteristics regarded as typical of a woman; not manly.
- He was unfairly labeled as effeminate because he enjoyed ballet.
- Effeminateness (n): A synonym for effeminacy.
- Spartans accused Athenians of effeminateness.
Synonyms
- Unmanliness: The state of not being manly.
- Womanishness (derogatory): Resembling or characteristic of a woman (when applied to a man).
- Softness: Lack of strength or robustness (in this context).
Antonyms
- Masculinity: Qualities or attributes regarded as characteristic of men.
- Virility: The quality of having strength, energy, and a strong sex drive, traditionally associated with men.
- Manliness: The traditional qualities befitting a man, such as courage and strength.
Notes on Usage
- Caution: Using "effeminacy" to describe a person is generally considered derogatory and offensive, as it judges individuals against narrow, often harmful, gender stereotypes. It is more appropriately used in historical or critical analysis rather than in personal description.
- Context: The term is often found in historical, sociological, or literary texts discussing gender norms.
Noun
- the trait of being effeminate (derogatory of a man)
- the students associated science with masculinity and arts with effeminacy
- Spartans accused Athenians of effeminateness
- he was shocked by the softness of the atmosphere surrounding the young prince, arising from the superfluity of the femininity that guided him