half-wit

/'hɑ:fwit/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
half-wit

A man is often called a half-wit for his foolish mistakes.

Definition

Noun: 1. A stupid or foolish person: A person who lacks intelligence or common sense; someone who behaves in a silly or incompetent manner. 2. A person of subnormal intelligence: A dated and offensive term for someone perceived to have below-average intellectual ability.

Usage
  • As a direct noun: Used to insult someone by calling them foolish or stupid.
    • Don't be such a half-wit and look both ways before crossing the street.
    • He felt like a complete half-wit for forgetting his own birthday.
  • As a descriptor: Often used with possessive adjectives or articles.
    • That half-wit left the keys in the car again.
    • She was tired of explaining simple tasks to that half-wit.
Advanced Usage
  • Historical/Offensive Connotation: The term is considered highly offensive and derogatory, especially when used in its second definition relating to intellectual disability. Its use is strongly discouraged in modern, respectful discourse.
  • Literary/Character Use: May appear in fiction or historical texts to portray a character's lack of intelligence or to show another character's contempt.
    • The villain dismissed his henchman as a useless half-wit.
Variants and Related Words
  • Half-witted (adjective): Having or showing a lack of intelligence; foolish.
    • It was a half-witted plan that was doomed to fail.
  • Dimwit (noun): A very close synonym, also meaning a stupid person.
Synonyms
  • Idiot: A foolish or stupid person.
  • Fool: A person who acts unwisely or imprudently.
  • Simpleton: A person lacking in common sense.
  • Dunce: A person who is slow at learning.
Antonyms
  • Genius: A person of exceptional intellectual or creative power.
  • Savant: A learned person, especially a distinguished scientist.
  • Intellectual: A person possessing a highly developed intellect.
Important Note on Usage

The term 'half-wit' is pejorative and insulting. It is important to avoid using this word to describe people, as it is hurtful and disrespectful. More neutral and respectful language should always be preferred.

half-wit

A man is often called a half-wit for his foolish mistakes.

Noun
  1. a stupid incompetent person
  2. a person of subnormal intelligence

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