Whit: meaning, definitions and examples
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whit
[wɪt ]
Definition
Middle English
The term 'whit' originates from Middle English, where it referred to a small amount or a hint. In contemporary English, it can be used to denote a grain or a small particle of something, often emphasizing insignificance or minimality. The expression 'not a whit' suggests the absence of something, equivalent to 'not at all.' Its usage may also reflect a moment of emphasis where one stresses that even a tiny detail or trace is notable. Although it's less frequently used today, it historically held a place in literary contexts as an expression of minimal quantity.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- There isn't a whit of truth in his statement.
- I don't care a whit about the consequences.
- She gave not a whit for his opinion.
- Not a whit did he feel remorse.
- The project was not a whit easier than expected.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from Old English 'hwita', which means 'white' or 'light', hinting at something trivial or unimportant.
- It was used historically in English literature to signify a small amount, particularly something that is hardly noticeable.
Literature
- Famous authors like William Shakespeare have used 'whit' in their works to convey the idea of insignificance.
- In poetry, particularly in the 18th century, 'whit' frequently appeared, emphasizing the minute details of life.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'not a whit' is commonly used in everyday language to assert that something is not significant at all.
- The word has been featured in various songs and cultural references to highlight triviality.
Psychology
- Psychologically, the concept of focusing on a 'whit' can reflect human tendencies to worry about small issues, sometimes at the expense of larger concerns.
- The idea of missing a 'whit' may resonate with cognitive biases where people overlook minor details despite their actual importance.
Translations
Translations of the word "whit" in other languages:
🇵🇹 branco
🇮🇳 सफेद
🇩🇪 weiß
🇮🇩 putih
🇺🇦 білий
🇵🇱 biały
🇯🇵 白い (しろい)
🇫🇷 blanc
🇪🇸 blanco
🇹🇷 beyaz
🇰🇷 흰 (흰색의)
🇸🇦 أبيض
🇨🇿 bílý
🇸🇰 biely
🇨🇳 白色 (báisè)
🇸🇮 bela
🇮🇸 hvítur
🇰🇿 ақ
🇬🇪 თეთრი
🇦🇿 ağ
🇲🇽 blanco