Lousy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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lousy
[ˈlaʊzi ]
Definitions
general quality
The word 'lousy' is used informally to describe something that is of poor quality or inferior. It can also express dissatisfaction or annoyance with a situation or person. Generally, it conveys a strong negative sentiment.
Synonyms
bad, poor, substandard, terrible.
Examples of usage
- The food at the restaurant was really lousy.
- He gave a lousy excuse for being late.
- I had a lousy day at work.
- The movie received lousy reviews.
feeling
'Lousy' can also be used to describe a feeling of being in a bad or depressed state. It often refers to feeling unwell or unhappy.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I feel so lousy today; I think I'm coming down with something.
- After hearing the news, he felt lousy.
- She woke up feeling lousy after not sleeping well.
- I always feel lousy when it rains.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Usage
- The term often appears in music and literature, reflecting dissatisfaction with various aspects of life.
- In popular culture, characters may use the term to express frustration or disillusionment, making it relatable to many situations.
Psychology
- People often use negative terms like 'lousy' to express feelings of dissatisfaction, which can serve as a release of built-up frustration.
- Language that conveys disappointment can also influence group dynamics, as a person expressing discontent might impact the overall mood.
Slang Evolution
- 'Lousy' has evolved into various expressions and phrases over the years, often used informally in casual conversations.
- This word adapted into several regions' slang, where it sometimes carries slightly different nuances based on local culture.
Origin of 'lousy'
Main points about word origin
- Originally, the word comes from 'louse', referring to the small insect, used in the 19th century to describe something that is infested or dirty.
- It became associated with negativity, representing not only filth but also poor quality in different contexts.
The term 'lousy' originates from the early 19th century, derived from the word 'louse' which refers to a small parasitic insect. The primary meaning connected to this insect was to be infested with lice, which was often associated with filth and unhygienic conditions. Over time, the meaning of 'lousy' evolved to describe things that were unpleasant or undesirable. By the mid-20th century, the usage of 'lousy' had become widely accepted in informal speech to denote anything of poor quality, leading to its contemporary usage. The transformation from a literal meaning to a colloquial expression exemplifies how language evolves and how context influences word meanings.