Pussyfooted: meaning, definitions and examples
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pussyfooted
[ ˈpʌsiˌfʊtɪd ]
behavioral approach
To pussyfoot means to act in a cautious, hesitant, or noncommittal manner, often to avoid confrontation or to not take a definitive stance. This term implies a level of stealth or carefulness in one’s approach to a situation, typically when an individual is trying to avoid upsetting others or wants to be diplomatic. It can also denote a lack of straightforwardness or directness.
Synonyms
dawdle, equivocate, fence, shilly-shally
Examples of usage
- He pussyfooted around the issue instead of addressing it directly.
- She always pussyfoots when it comes to making decisions.
- Stop pussyfooting and just tell me what you think.
Translations
Translations of the word "pussyfooted" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ser cauteloso
🇮🇳 संकोच करना
🇩🇪 zögerlich
🇮🇩 berhati-hati
🇺🇦 вити́жувати
🇵🇱 ostrożny
🇯🇵 用心する
🇫🇷 hésitant
🇪🇸 andar con cautela
🇹🇷 tedirgin olmak
🇰🇷 조심스럽다
🇸🇦 يتصرف بحذر
🇨🇿 opatrný
🇸🇰 opatrný
🇨🇳 小心翼翼
🇸🇮 cautious
🇮🇸 varkár
🇰🇿 сақ
🇬🇪 გულღია
🇦🇿 dikkatli
🇲🇽 andar con cautela
Etymology
The term 'pussyfoot' originated in the early 20th century, likely derived from the fusion of 'pussy,' a term often used as a diminutive for 'cat,' and 'foot,' referencing the quiet, stealthy steps associated with a cat. Cats are known for their ability to move silently and carefully, thus the term began to signify a cautious manner of behaving in various contexts. Initially, it was used to describe individuals who tiptoe around issues or subjects without addressing them directly. The word gained popularity during the time when people were more inclined to avoid confrontations, making it a fitting descriptor for interpersonal relations and communication styles. Over time, 'pussyfoot' has evolved and is often used in both casual and formal contexts to denote reluctance to engage outrightly in discussions or decision-making.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,104, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.