mealy-mouthed

/'mi:limauðd/

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The word "mealy-mouthed" is an adjective used to describe someone who is hesitant or unwilling to speak plainly or directly. People who are mealy-mouthed often avoid saying what they really think, often because they are afraid of offending someone or want to be polite. This can come off as insincere or unclear.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "mealy-mouthed" to describe someone’s way of speaking when they are not straightforward.
• It often has a negative connotation, implying that the person is being evasive or dishonest.

Example:

• "The politician gave a mealy-mouthed response when asked about his plans for the economy, avoiding giving a clear answer."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "mealy-mouthed" can be used to critique someone's communication style in formal debates, discussions, or negotiations where clarity is crucial.

Word Variants:

• The noun form is "mealy-mouthedness," which refers to the quality of being mealy-mouthed.
• There is no commonly used verb form.

Different Meanings:

"Mealy-mouthed" primarily refers to speaking in a vague or evasive manner. It does not have other meanings but is closely linked to attitudes of timidity or hypocrisy.

Synonyms:

• Evasive
• Indirect
• Circumlocutory
• Ambiguous

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that use "mealy-mouthed," related expressions include: - "Beating around the bush": This means to avoid getting to the point or talking about something directly, similar to being mealy-mouthed. - "Speaking in circles": This refers to talking in a way that is confusing or not clear, often without a direct answer.

Academic

Adjective

1. hesitant to state facts or opinions simply and directly as from e.g. timidity or hypocrisy
   • a mealymouthed politician

Synonyms

• mealymouthed