Definition

1. Verb:
   • To make a sudden, small movement because of pain, fear, or surprise; to wince involuntarily.
   • To withdraw or shrink back from something difficult, dangerous, or unpleasant.

Usage

• The verb "flinch" describes an instinctive physical reaction or a hesitation in the face of adversity.
• It is often used with the preposition "at" when reacting to a specific stimulus (e.g., flinch at a loud noise) and "from" when withdrawing from a task or responsibility (e.g., flinch from a challenge).

Examples

• Verb:
  • He didn't flinch when the doctor gave him the injection.
  • She flinched at the sight of the spider.
  • A true leader does not flinch from making tough decisions.

Advanced Usage

• "without flinching": Used to describe doing something bravely or without showing any sign of fear or hesitation.
  • The soldier stood his ground without flinching.

Variants and Related Words

• Flinchy (adj, informal): Tending to flinch easily; jumpy.
  • The flinchy horse was spooked by the wind.

Synonyms

• Wince: To show pain or distress by a slight, involuntary grimace or movement.
• Recoil: To shrink back physically, often in horror, disgust, or fear.
• Shrink: To draw back, as in retreat or avoidance.
• Cringe: To bend one's head and body in fear or apprehension in a servile manner; also implies a reaction of embarrassment or distaste.

Phrasal Verbs / Related Phrases

• Flinch from (something): To hesitate or be unwilling to do something because it is unpleasant or frightening.
  • He never flinched from telling the truth, no matter the consequences.

Related Idioms

• Not flinch an eyelid: (Also "not bat an eyelid") To not show any surprise or alarm when something unexpected happens.
  • She didn't flinch an eyelid when they told her the shocking news.

Noun

1. a reflex response to sudden pain

Verb

1. draw back, as with fear or pain
   • she flinched when they showed the slaughtering of the calf