Impatient Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก
impatient
[ษชmหpeษชสษnt ]
Definitions
feeling
Having or showing a tendency to be quickly irritated or provoked.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impatient |
Used when someone cannot wait for something and gets annoyed or anxious because it is taking too long.
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| restless |
Used when someone cannot stay still or calm, either physically or mentally, often because of anxiety or boredom.
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| eager |
Refers to a keen interest or strong desire for something, usually with a positive connotation of excitement.
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| agitated |
Describes a state of being very upset, nervous, or disturbed. Often suggests a more intense emotional reaction.
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Examples of usage
- She was growing impatient waiting for the results.
- He tapped his foot impatiently while waiting in line.
- Impatient customers often demand fast service.
person
A person who is easily annoyed or provoked.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impatient |
This definition is same as above: used when someone has little patience and can't wait for things to happen. This term is neutral and doesn't imply strong emotions or aggressive behavior.
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| hothead |
This word is used for someone who easily loses their temper and reacts quickly without thinking. It has a somewhat negative connotation, suggesting a lack of control.
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| irritant |
Irritant describes something or someone that causes annoyance or discomfort. This term has a negative connotation and is used when the focus is on the annoyance caused.
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| firebrand |
Firebrand describes a person who is passionate and tends to incite others, often used in the context of social or political activism. It carries a sense of enthusiasm but can also imply a tendency to cause trouble or rebellion.
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Examples of usage
- Don't be such an impatient, the line is moving slowly.
- She was known as an impatient when it came to waiting.
medicine
A patient who is difficult to deal with, especially in terms of compliance with a treatment plan.
Synonyms
difficult patient, noncompliant patient.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impatient |
This term can also describe a patient who is restless and unwilling to wait calmly for treatment or results. It suggests frustration and lack of patience.
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| noncompliant patient |
This refers to a patient who does not follow medical advice or prescribed treatment plans. It is commonly used in medical settings to indicate someone who is not adhering to the recommended care, and has a negative connotation.
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| difficult patient |
This term is often used by medical professionals to describe a patient who is hard to manage, either because of their behavior, non-cooperation, or complex medical needs. It can have a slightly negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The doctor had to deal with a particularly impatient who refused to take the prescribed medication.
- The nurse found it challenging to handle the impatient in the ward.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Impatience can be linked to higher levels of anxiety, which means people who are often impatient may feel nervous more often.
- Research shows that impatient individuals might struggle with impulse control, leading them to make rash decisions.
- Studies indicate that impatience can affect goal achievement, with impatient people often favoring immediate rewards over long-term success.
Literature
- Impatience is a common theme in various literary works, often representing the struggle between desire and the necessity of waiting.
- Many characters in classic literature demonstrate impatience, which often leads to conflicts or hasty decisions that change their paths.
- In modern literature, impatience can reflect broader societal issues, such as the fast-paced nature of the digital age.
Pop Culture
- Comedic characters in films often use impatience for humorous effect, heightening tension in situations that require waiting.
- The impatience portrayed in popular music often speaks to themes of love, longing, or desire for change, resonating with listeners.
- Reality TV shows frequently showcase impatience among contestants, driving drama and engagement with the audience.
Cultural Views
- In many cultures, being patient is considered a virtue, often seen in proverbs and sayings that emphasize the importance of waiting.
- Contrarily, modern society, driven by technology, encourages a fast-paced lifestyle that can foster impatience.
- Cultural attitudes toward waiting can shape behaviors in various contexts, from personal relationships to business practices.
Origin of 'impatient'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'impatientem', which means 'not suffering' or 'not enduring' something.
- In English, the term has been used since the late 14th century to describe someone who is unable to wait calmly.
- The prefix 'im-' suggests a negation, turning 'patient' (able to wait) into its opposite.
The word 'impatient' originated from the Latin word 'impatiens', which is a combination of 'in-' (not) and 'pati' (to suffer). It entered the English language in the 14th century with the meaning 'restless' or 'unable to bear'. Over time, 'impatient' evolved to describe a person who is easily irritated or provoked, as well as a medical term for a noncompliant patient. The word reflects the human tendency to struggle with waiting or enduring discomfort.
See also: impatiently, patience, patiently, patients.