Explanation of "Bleeding Heart"
Definition: The term "bleeding heart" has two main meanings:
Usage Instructions
When to use it: You can use "bleeding heart" to describe a person in a conversation about someone who is very compassionate, but you might also use it in a slightly negative way to suggest that someone is overly sympathetic or naive.
Example in a sentence: "She’s such a bleeding heart; she always donates her time to help the homeless."
Advanced Usage
Context: In political discussions, calling someone a "bleeding heart" might imply that they are too idealistic and lack practicality when it comes to social issues.
Example: "The politician’s bleeding heart approach to immigration reform was criticized by those who believed in stricter laws."
Word Variants
Different Meanings
Figurative Meaning: When used figuratively, being called a "bleeding heart" can sometimes imply that the person is overly emotional to the point of being impractical.
Literal Meaning: As a plant, it refers specifically to the Dicentra spectabilis species, which is known for its unique flower shape and vibrant colors.
Synonyms
For the person meaning:
Compassionate
Soft-hearted
Sentimental
Altruistic
Philanthropic
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
Related Idioms:
Phrasal verbs:
Summary
"Bleeding heart" can describe a compassionate person or refer to a beautiful garden plant. It's important to be aware of the context, as it can be used positively or negatively.