impudence
/im'pru:dəns/
Definition
- Noun:
- The quality of being impudent; insolence or impertinence: Impudence refers to the trait of being disrespectfully bold or rude, showing a lack of respect for others.
- An impudent act or statement: It can also refer to a specific instance of such behavior, like a rude remark or action.
Usage and Examples
- As a noun (quality):
- His constant impudence towards the teacher finally got him suspended.
- I was shocked by the sheer impudence of the request.
- As a noun (specific instance):
- She had the impudence to ask for a raise on her first day.
- Telling the boss he was wrong was an act of great impudence.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- "To have the impudence to do something": This is a common construction used to express shock or disapproval at someone's audacity in performing a specific rude or bold action.
- He had the impudence to correct the expert in front of everyone.
- Formal vs. Informal: "Impudence" is a more formal word than synonyms like "cheek" or "nerve." It often carries a stronger sense of moral disapproval.
Variants and Related Words
- Impudent (adjective): Behaving in a rude, disrespectful way.
- That was an impudent question to ask a stranger.
- Impudently (adverb): In a rude and disrespectful manner.
- He stared impudently back at the officer.
Synonyms
- Insolence: Openly disrespectful and defiant behavior.
- Impertinence: Lack of respect; rudeness.
- Cheek (informal): Impudent behavior or speech.
- Audacity: Willingness to take bold risks, often with a negative connotation of disrespect.
- Effrontery: Insolent or impertinent behavior.
Antonyms
- Politeness: Behavior that is respectful and considerate.
- Deference: Humble submission and respect.
- Courtesy: The showing of politeness in one's attitude and behavior toward others.
Idioms and Phrases
- "The height of impudence": Used to describe an action that is extremely rude or audacious.
- Asking to borrow money after insulting her was the height of impudence.
- "Barefaced impudence": Impudence that is shameless and blatant, with no attempt to hide it.
- It was barefaced impudence to deny eating the cake with frosting still on his face.
Noun
-
the trait of being rude and impertinent; inclined to take liberties
-
an impudent statement
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