misbegotten
/'misbi'gɔtn/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Illegitimate, born to parents not married to each other: The primary meaning refers to a child whose biological parents were not legally married at the time of birth.
- Poorly conceived, badly planned, or of dubious origin: Used figuratively to describe ideas, plans, or things that are badly designed, ill-conceived, or have a questionable or disreputable beginning.
Usage Examples
Literal meaning (illegitimate):
- The old records referred to him as the king's misbegotten son.
- Inheritance laws once discriminated against misbegotten children.
Figurative meaning (ill-conceived):
- The entire scheme was a misbegotten attempt to get rich quickly.
- We abandoned the misbegotten project after it wasted months of our time.
Advanced Usage
"misbegotten notion/idea": A foolish or poorly thought-out concept.
- He finally let go of the misbegotten notion that he could succeed without any effort.
"misbegotten wealth/gains": Money or possessions acquired through dishonest or questionable means.
- The tycoon's misbegotten wealth was eventually seized by the authorities.
Variants and Related Words
- Misbegot (adj): An archaic or less common variant of "misbegotten."
- Bastard (n/adj): A direct, often offensive synonym for an illegitimate child. "Misbegotten" is a more formal or literary alternative.
Synonyms
- Illegitimate: Born out of wedlock.
- Illicit: Forbidden by law, rules, or custom (often used for relationships).
- Spurious: Not genuine, authentic, or legitimate.
- Ill-conceived: Not carefully planned or considered.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- "Misbegotten enterprise": A venture or undertaking that is doomed from the start due to poor planning or a flawed premise.
- The company's foray into the smartphone market was a misbegotten enterprise from day one.
Adjective
- born out of wedlock
- the dominions of both rulers passed away to their spurious or doubtful offspring- E.A.Freeman