spunky
/'spʌɳki/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Spirited, plucky, or courageous: Describes someone who shows bravery, determination, and a lively, independent spirit, especially in the face of difficulty.
- Feisty or full of energy: Describes someone who is lively, determined, and perhaps a bit aggressive or argumentative.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Despite being the smallest player on the team, she was incredibly spunky and never backed down from a challenge.
- The spunky little dog barked bravely at the much larger intruder.
- He gave a spunky reply to the critic, defending his work with passion.
Advanced Usage
- "to be spunky": to possess a spirited and courageous attitude.
- You have to be spunky to start your own business in this economy.
- Used to describe behavior or actions that show defiance and energy.
- She made a spunky decision to travel the world alone.
Variants and Related Words
- Spunk (n): Courage, spirit, or determination.
- It took a lot of spunk to stand up to the bully.
- Spunkily (adv): In a spunky manner.
- She answered the difficult questions spunkily.
Synonyms
- Plucky: Showing courage in the face of difficulties.
- Feisty: Lively, determined, and courageous, often implying a touch of aggression.
- Spirited: Full of energy, enthusiasm, and determination.
- Gutsy: Informal synonym meaning brave and determined.
Antonyms
- Timid: Showing a lack of courage or confidence.
- Cowardly: Lacking courage.
- Meek: Quiet, gentle, and easily imposed on; submissive.
Idioms and Phrases
- Full of spunk: An idiom meaning full of courage, energy, and determination.
- The new recruit is full of spunk and new ideas.
- A spunky attitude: A common collocation describing a courageous and lively approach.
- Her spunky attitude helped her overcome many obstacles.
Adjective
- willing to face danger
- showing courage
- the champion is faced with a feisty challenger