Bulldogged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ถ
bulldogged
[หbสl.dษษกd ]
Definition
informal usage
To be bulldogged means to be subjected to relentless pursuit or pressure, often in a demanding or aggressive manner. This term can describe a situation where someone is persistently followed or coerced by another party. It reflects an insistence on achieving a goal or result despite obstacles or resistance. The metaphor draws from the tenacity of bulldogs, known for their strength and determination. This term is commonly used in various contexts, particularly in competitive situations or negotiations.
Synonyms
coerced, harassed, pressured, pursued.
Examples of usage
- The sales team bulldogged the client into making a decision.
- She felt bulldogged by her supervisor to finish the project early.
- The team bulldogged their opponents in the final minutes of the game.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In some popular films, characters portrayed as 'bulldogged' reflect a never-give-up attitude, often leading to their success.
- Bulldogs often appear in sports team mascots, symbolizing the fierce determination and unyielding spirit of the teams.
- The term has been used in motivational speaking and literature to inspire resilience in the face of challenges.
Psychology
- The concept of perseverance associated with being bulldogged links to principles of grit, which emphasize long-term commitment to goals.
- Studies suggest that people who display bulldoggedness often experience greater levels of achievement, as they are less likely to be easily discouraged.
- This behavior can also be tied to the growth mindset, where individuals believe their abilities can improve with effort.
Sports
- Athletes often showcase bulldogged determination, especially in endurance sports where mental fortitude is crucial.
- Coaches encourage a bulldogged approach to training, suggesting that hard work and consistency lead to success in competitive environments.
- Sports commentators often describe players who show resilience and determination during their performances as having a bulldogged spirit.
Literature
- The narrative of characters who embody bulldogged traits is common in classic literature, often highlighting their journeys through adversity.
- Many authors use bulldoggedness as a theme to convey the importance of persistence in personal growth and success.
- Famous literary quotes often reflect this spirit, encouraging readers to adopt a bulldogged mindset in their own lives.
Origin of 'bulldogged'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'bulldogged' derives from the characteristics of bulldogs, known for their tenacious nature.
- Initially, bulldogs were bred for bull-baiting, reflecting their ability to cling tenaciously to larger prey.
- The word has evolved from describing the literal behavior of bulldogs to metaphorically representing persistence in people.
The term 'bulldogged' likely originated from the behaviors associated with bulldogs, a breed known for its determination and tenacity. The use of the word 'bulldog' to describe someone or something relentless can be traced back to the breed's history of bull-baiting in medieval England, where these dogs were used to latch on to a bull and resist being pulled away. Over time, the word transformed into various idiomatic expressions conveying the idea of persistence and determination. In contemporary usage, 'bulldogged' has taken on a slightly informal tone, often associated with aggressive tactics in negotiation or competition. It captures the essence of an unyielding approach to achieving oneโs objectives, demonstrating how language evolves by linking animal characteristics to human behaviors.