mealy-mouthed
/'mi:limauðd/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Unwilling to speak plainly or directly; using evasive, indirect, or euphemistic language: Describes a person or their speech that avoids stating something unpleasant, critical, or honest in a clear, straightforward manner, often due to insincerity, fear, or a desire to avoid offense.
Usage
The adjective "mealy-mouthed" is used to criticize someone's communication as being dishonestly indirect, overly cautious, or insincerely flattering. It implies a lack of courage or integrity in speech. It is typically used in a disapproving or contemptuous tone.
Examples
- Adjective:
- The company's mealy-mouthed apology failed to address the core issue.
- We need direct answers, not more mealy-mouthed excuses from our leaders.
- She was tired of his mealy-mouthed compliments that never led to any real support.
Advanced Usage
- "to be mealy-mouthed about something": to speak evasively concerning a specific topic.
- The official was mealy-mouthed about the budget cuts, refusing to name which programs would be affected.
Variants and Related Words
- Mealy-mouthedness (n, rare): The quality of being mealy-mouthed.
- The document was criticized for its mealy-mouthedness.
Synonyms
- Evasive: Tending to avoid commitment or direct answers.
- Equivocal: Using ambiguous language to conceal the truth.
- Euphemistic: Using mild or indirect words in place of harsh or blunt ones.
- Indirect: Not straightforward or to the point.
- Tactful (can be a less negative synonym in some contexts): Having or showing skill and sensitivity in dealing with others.
Antonyms
- Forthright: Direct and outspoken.
- Blunt: Uncompromisingly straightforward.
- Candid: Truthful and straightforward.
- Plain-spoken: Speaking in a direct, honest manner.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To mince (one's) words: To speak vaguely or indirectly to avoid offense (similar in meaning).
- He didn't mince his words, unlike his mealy-mouthed colleague.
Adjective
-
hesitant to state facts or opinions simply and directly as from e.g. timidity or hypocrisy
-
a mealymouthed politician
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