Pusillanimity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ
pusillanimity
[หpjuหsษชหlรฆnษชmษชti ]
Definition
lack of courage
Pusillanimity is the quality of being timid or cowardly, lacking courage in the face of danger or difficulty. It is the opposite of bravery and can be seen as a weakness.
Synonyms
cowardice, fearfulness, timidity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pusillanimity |
This word is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe a lack of courage or resolution, especially in facing difficult situations.
|
| cowardice |
This word has a negative connotation and is used to describe someone who is extremely afraid or shows a lack of bravery, often considered dishonorable.
|
| timidity |
This word is appropriate when describing someone who is shy, lacks confidence, or is hesitant, often in social situations.
|
| fearfulness |
This word is used to describe a general sense of being full of fear. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- He was criticized for his pusillanimity in not standing up for what he believed in.
- Her pusillanimity prevented her from taking risks and pursuing her dreams.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Aristotle discussed courage as a virtue, opposing pusillanimity as something to be avoided.
- In Stoically influenced thought, pusillanimity represents a failure to act according to reason and virtue.
- Many ethical discussions frame pusillanimity as a moral failing, contrasting it with bravery and integrity.
Psychology
- Pusillanimity can be linked to anxiety disorders, where individuals may irrationally fear situations.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy often addresses pusillanimity by challenging negative thoughts and fears.
- Traits associated with pusillanimity include low self-esteem and aversion to confrontation.
Literature
- In many classic novels, characters exhibiting pusillanimity often undergo significant development or redemption arcs.
- Shakespeare's works often explore the tension between courage and pusillanimity through various characters.
- The theme of cowardice versus bravery is central in works like 'The Wizard of Oz', where characters seek courage.
Pop Culture
- Movies often illustrate pusillanimity through characters who initially lack bravery but find their courage by the end.
- Comedic portrayals, like in many sitcoms, often exaggerate pusillanimity for humorous effect.
- Popular video games sometimes feature characters whose growth involves overcoming pusillanimity to defeat villains.
Origin of 'pusillanimity'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'pusillanimis', meaning 'small-minded' or 'weak-spirited'.
- It combines 'pusillus', meaning 'small', and 'animus', meaning 'spirit' or 'mind'.
- The term has been used in English since the early 17th century, often to describe cowardly behavior.
The word 'pusillanimity' originated from the Latin word 'pusillanimis', which means 'very small spirit'. It was first used in the 15th century to describe a lack of courage or determination. The concept of pusillanimity has been explored in various literary works and philosophical discussions, highlighting the importance of bravery and courage in facing challenges.