pluckless
Definition
Adjective: - Lacking courage or determination: "pluckless" describes a person who is without bravery, resolution, or the will to face difficulty or danger. It is the opposite of "plucky" (courageous).
Usage Examples
- (He lacked the courage to confront the aggressor.)
- (The soldier showed no bravery in the face of combat.)
- (Her lack of determination caused her to abandon the effort quickly.)
Advanced Usage
- "a pluckless spirit": a state of being without courage or fortitude.
- The team's pluckless spirit was evident when they surrendered without a fight. (The team showed no resolve or bravery.)
Variants and Related Words
Pluck (noun): courage, boldness, or determination.
- She showed great pluck in facing her illness. (She displayed admirable bravery.)
Plucky (adjective): having or showing courage and determination.
- The plucky little dog chased away the larger intruder. (The dog was brave despite its size.)
Pluckily (adverb): in a courageous manner.
- He pluckily defended his friend's reputation. (He did so with bravery.)
Synonyms
- Cowardly: lacking courage; easily frightened.
- Timid: showing a lack of courage or confidence.
- Fearful: feeling or showing fear or anxiety.
- Spineless: lacking strength of character or courage.
Antonyms
- Plucky: courageous and determined.
- Brave: ready to face and endure danger or pain.
- Resolute: admirably purposeful and determined.
Related Idioms
To lose one's nerve: to become afraid or hesitant.
- He lost his nerve and backed out of the challenge, proving himself pluckless. (He became too frightened to proceed.)
To have no stomach for something: to lack the courage or desire to do something.
- She had no stomach for the dangerous climb, appearing pluckless to her companions. (She lacked the courage for the task.)