unmanliness
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. The quality or state of lacking qualities traditionally associated with men, such as strength, courage, or stoicism; perceived weakness or effeminacy. This term is often used in a derogatory or critical way to describe a man or his behavior.
Usage
The word "unmanliness" is a noun used to label a perceived deficiency in masculine traits. It is a value-laden term, frequently employed in critical or comparative contexts. * It is often used in discussions of gender roles, stereotypes, or social expectations. * Its use can be controversial, as it reinforces rigid and potentially harmful ideas about masculinity.
Examples
- His critics attacked his emotional speech as a sign of unmanliness.
- The old military code viewed showing fear in battle as the ultimate unmanliness.
- The concept of unmanliness is socially constructed and varies across cultures.
Advanced Usage
- Sociological Critique: The term is often analyzed in gender studies as a tool for enforcing patriarchal norms. For example, "The pressure to avoid any appearance of unmanliness can be psychologically damaging for men."
- Historical Context: In different historical periods, definitions of unmanliness have changed. What was considered unmanliness in the 19th century may not be viewed the same way today.
Variants and Related Words
- Unmanly (adjective): Having or showing qualities considered not masculine.
- He was told that crying was unmanly.
- Effeminacy (noun): The manifestation of traits in a man that are traditionally associated with women. (A close synonym, often used interchangeably with "unmanliness" in derogatory contexts).
- Softness (noun): Lack of strength or toughness; can be used as a synonym in this context.
- Weakness (noun): The state of lacking strength.
Synonyms
- Effeminacy
- Softness (in this specific context)
- Weakness (in this specific context)
- Timidity
Antonyms
- Manliness
- Masculinity
- Virility
- Courage
- Stoicism
Noun
- the trait of being effeminate (derogatory of a man)
- the students associated science with masculinity and arts with effeminacy
- Spartans accused Athenians of effeminateness
- he was shocked by the softness of the atmosphere surrounding the young prince, arising from the superfluity of the femininity that guided him