pusillanimousness

Thân thiện

A leader's pusillanimousness prevented him from making the necessary decision.

Definition

Noun: - Contemptible fearfulness; cowardice: The quality of being pusillanimous, showing a lack of courage or determination in a way that is considered weak, timid, or contemptible.

Usage

This is a formal and somewhat literary noun used to describe a character trait of extreme, often blameworthy, timidity. It implies a failure to act bravely or take a stand due to a weak spirit.

Examples

• His pusillanimousness in the face of injustice disappointed his followers.
• The general condemned the pusillanimousness of the deserters.
• The decision was born more from pusillanimousness than from strategic caution.

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries a strong moral judgment, suggesting the fearfulness is not just understandable caution but a failing of character.
• It is frequently used in political, historical, or ethical discourse to criticize leaders or groups.

Variants and Related Words

• Pusillanimous (adj): Having or showing a lack of courage or determination; timid.
  • The pusillanimous ruler surrendered without a fight.
• Pusillanimity (n): A synonym for pusillanimousness, meaning the same contemptible fearfulness.

Synonyms

• Cowardice
• Timidity
• Spinelessness
• Faintheartedness
• Cravenness

Antonyms

• Courage
• Bravery
• Fortitude
• Boldness
• Fearlessness

Học thuật

Noun

1. contemptible fearfulness

Từ đồng nghĩa

• pusillanimity