Pussyfooted: meaning, definitions and examples
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pussyfooted
[ˈpʌsiˌfʊtɪd ]
Definition
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'pussyfooted' originated in the early 20th century during the 1910s.
- The word combines 'pussy', referring to a cat, and 'foot', suggesting careful movement.
- It was originally used in the context of someone walking softly, like a cat, to avoid noise.
Pop Culture
- The phrase is often used in political contexts to describe leaders or parties avoiding direct stances.
- In literature, characters might be described as 'pussyfooting' around issues to reflect indecision or cowardice.
Psychology
- People may behave this way due to fear of conflict or rejection, wanting to keep harmony in group dynamics.
- Avoiding direct communication can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of trust over time.
Social Dynamics
- In teamwork, excessive pussyfooting can slow progress as decisions are delayed.
- The term often highlights the contrast between assertive and passive communication styles.
Language Evolution
- Similar expressions include 'walking on eggshells', which also conveys carefulness due to sensitivity.
- The usage of 'pussyfooted' has evolved, and it can now also refer to avoiding commitment in personal relationships.
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
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.