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Backchat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜’
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backchat

[หˆbakหŒtสƒat ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

informal

A rude or cheeky reply; impertinent talk.

Synonyms

cheekiness, impertinence, sass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
backchat

Used mainly in British English, typically to describe when someone (usually a child, student, or subordinate) replies rudely or defiantly to someone in authority.

  • The teacher was not pleased with the student's backchat during the lesson
cheekiness

Often describes playful rudeness or irreverence with a humorous undertone. Usually, itโ€™s not taken too seriously and can be seen in friendly interactions.

  • Her cheekiness always brightens up our meetings, even when she's a bit too forward
impertinence

Describes rudeness or boldness in speech or behavior, often showing lack of respect for someone who deserves it. It has a negative connotation.

  • His impertinence towards the manager shocked everyone at the meeting
sass

Typically used informally to describe cheeky or disrespectful remarks, often from young people towards adults. Can be similar to 'backchat' but more common in American English.

  • She got in trouble for giving her mom some sass about the chores

Examples of usage

  • He was sent to the principal's office for his backchat during class.
  • She doesn't tolerate any backchat from her children.
Context #2 | Verb

informal

To reply rudely or cheekily; to talk back impertinently.

Synonyms

argue, quarrel, retort.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
backchat

Informal, often used to describe a child or subordinate speaking rudely or disrespectfully to someone in authority. It has a negative connotation.

  • Don't give me any backchat, young man!
  • The student was punished for his backchat to the teacher.
argue

Suitable for formal or informal situations where there are disagreements or debates. Usually involves logical reasoning and counter-arguments.

  • They often argue about politics during family dinners.
  • He likes to argue his point during meetings.
retort

Responding quickly and sharply to a remark, often defensive or witty. The context often involves someone trying to defend themselves or make a clever comeback.

  • She retorted angrily to his accusation.
  • In response to his insult, she delivered a sharp retort.
quarrel

More emotional and personal disagreements, often between close relationships like family or friends. It implies a heated argument.

  • They had a quarrel about money last night.
  • It's normal for siblings to quarrel occasionally.

Examples of usage

  • He got in trouble for backchatting the teacher.
  • Don't backchat me, young man!

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, a certain level of backchat is seen as disrespectful, while in others, it can indicate familiarity and comfort.
  • Stand-up comedians often use clever backchat as a form of humor, engaging the audience and creating a lively interaction.

Psychology

  • Engaging in backchat can be a sign of a healthy relationship dynamic, showing that both parties feel safe to express their opinions.
  • However, overly frequent backchat may stem from underlying issues of defiance or unresolved conflict in authority relationships.

Literature

  • Characters in novels sometimes use backchat to showcase their wit, challenging societal norms and expectations.
  • In plays, backchat can heighten tension and humor, adding depth to character interactions and plot development.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV often features contestants engaging in backchat, creating drama and entertainment for viewers.
  • Animated shows frequently use playful backchat to develop characters, appealing to both children and adults with humor.

Origin of 'backchat'

Main points about word origin

  • The term combines 'back', indicating a reversal or response, and 'chat', reflecting a casual conversation.
  • It originated in the early 20th century in British English, primarily used in contexts of children speaking back to adults.

The word 'backchat' originated in the early 20th century in British English. It combines 'back' (in the sense of 'in response') and 'chat' (informal conversation). Over time, it has come to be used to describe impertinent or cheeky replies, particularly in a disrespectful or disobedient manner.

See also: back, backbone, backdrop, backed, backer, backers, backhander, backing, backline, backmarker, backpack, backroom, backside, backspace, backstop, backup, backward, backwards, backyard, unbacked.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,320, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.