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pusillanimous

Pusillanimous (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/ˌpjuːsɪˈlanɪməs/

What does pusillanimous mean?

Lacking courage or determination, often accompanied by timidity, cowardice, or weakness.
"The pusillanimous response from the leadership left the team demoralized."

Detailed Meaning of Pusillanimous

It can also refer to a person who is easily intimidated or frightened. A pusillanimous person is often seen as a person who lacks the courage to take a stand or assert their own opinions, and instead tends to follow others or remain silent in difficult situations. In general, the term is used to describe someone who is overly cautious, hesitant, or fearful in the face of challenges or adversity.

Example Sentences for Pusillanimous

1. His pusillanimous behavior in the face of adversity disappointed everyone.
2. She showed a pusillanimous reluctance to confront her fears.
3. John's pusillanimous approach to the challenge didn't inspire confidence in his abilities.
4. The pusillanimous student hesitated to ask questions in class.
5. The manager's pusillanimous decision-making led to a decline in company morale.
6. The government's pusillanimous response to the crisis was seen as a failure of leadership.

Origin and Etymology of Pusillanimous

The adjective 'pusillanimous' has its origins in Latin, derived from 'pusillus' (meaning 'very small' or 'very weak') and 'animus' (meaning 'mind' or 'spirit'). In Latin, 'pusillanimus' was used to describe individuals who displayed a small or weak spirit, often characterized by a lack of courage or determination, timidity, and cowardice. When 'pusillanimous' was adopted into English, it retained this sense of lacking in bravery and strength of character. It is used to describe individuals who exhibit timidity, cowardice, or weakness, particularly in the face of challenges or adversity. The etymology of 'pusillanimous' underscores its historical connection to the concept of having a small or weak spirit, emphasizing the qualities of timidity and lack of courage that characterize pusillanimous individuals.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective pusillanimous:

courageous

brave

cowardly

bold

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Pusillanimous

1. In the horror movie, the pusillanimous character was the first to flee from danger.
2. Her pusillanimous excuse for missing the deadline was unconvincing.
3. The team needed a leader who was bold and decisive, not pusillanimous.
4. His pusillanimous attitude prevented him from pursuing his dreams.
5. The pusillanimous response of the government to the crisis drew criticism from the public.
6. The pusillanimous approach to negotiations resulted in an unfavorable deal.
7. Mary's pusillanimous apology didn't mend the rift in their friendship.
8. His pusillanimous reaction to the criticism showed a lack of self-confidence.
9. The pusillanimous captain of the ship abandoned his crew in a storm.
10. The pusillanimous response to the environmental crisis worried conservationists.
11. She found his pusillanimous behavior unattractive and unappealing.
12. The pusillanimous candidate lacked the charisma needed to win the election.
13. His pusillanimous attempt at public speaking ended in embarrassment.
14. The pusillanimous way he handled rejection made him hesitant to try again.