saucy
/'sɔ:si/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Improperly forward or bold; impudent: Showing a lack of respect in a way that is bold, cheeky, or presumptuous.
- Characterized by a lightly pert and exuberant quality; lively and irreverent: Having a spirited, playful, and slightly irreverent manner or style.
Usage
- The word "saucy" describes behavior, remarks, or a manner that is boldly disrespectful or playfully lively. It can have a negative connotation of rudeness or a positive connotation of spirited charm, depending on context.
- It is often used to describe someone's attitude, tone of voice, or a witty, bold comment.
Examples
- Adjective (Impudent):
- The waiter gave a saucy retort when the customer complained.
- She was fired for her saucy attitude towards the manager.
- Adjective (Playfully lively):
- He wrote a saucy letter full of witty jokes.
- The dancer had a saucy smile that captivated the audience.
Advanced Usage
- "Saucy" can be used to describe things like humor, glances, or clothing that suggest a playful, bold, or slightly provocative style.
- She wore a saucy hat tilted to one side.
- The novel is known for its saucy dialogue.
Variants and Related Words
- Saucily (adverb): In a saucy manner.
- She answered saucily, not caring about the consequences.
- Sauciness (noun): The quality of being saucy.
- Her sauciness was both amusing and irritating.
Synonyms
- Cheeky: Impudent or irreverent, typically in an endearing way.
- Impudent: Not showing due respect for another person; impertinent.
- Pert: Lively and bold in a way that is attractive or slightly disrespectful.
- Irreverent: Showing a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously.
Antonyms
- Respectful: Feeling or showing deference and respect.
- Polite: Having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people.
- Subdued: Quiet and rather reflective or depressed.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- A saucy minx: A playful, slightly old-fashioned phrase for a cheeky or impudent young woman.
- In the old play, the maid was portrayed as a saucy minx.
- Saucy as they come: An informal expression meaning extremely bold or cheeky.
- That new intern is as saucy as they come, questioning every decision.
Adjective
- improperly forward or bold
- don't be fresh with me
- impertinent of a child to lecture a grownup
- an impudent boy given to insulting strangers
- Don't get wise with me!
- characterized by a lightly pert and exuberant quality
- a certain irreverent gaiety and ease of manner