Handwavy

Pronunciation: /ˈhændˌweɪvi/

Definitions of handwavy

adjective characterized by vague or exaggerated gestures or language, especially to avoid addressing an issue or problem directly

Example Sentences

A1 The instructions were too handwavy for me to understand.

A2 The presentation was full of handwavy explanations that left me confused.

B1 The handwavy nature of the report made it difficult to determine the key points.

B2 The professor's handwavy explanations were frustrating for students who wanted clear answers.

C1 The CEO's handwavy response to the shareholders' questions did not instill confidence in the company's direction.

C2 The politician's handwavy promises were met with skepticism by the public.

Examples of handwavy in a Sentence

formal The speaker's argument was dismissed as being too handwavy and lacking concrete evidence.

informal Don't give me that handwavy explanation, I want to know the real facts.

slang Stop being so handwavy and just tell me the truth.

figurative His promises were as handwavy as a mirage in the desert.

Grammatical Forms of handwavy

• past tense: handwaved
• plural: handwavies
• comparative: more handwavy
• superlative: most handwavy
• present tense: handwaves
• future tense: will handwave
• perfect tense: has handwaved
• continuous tense: is handwaving
• singular: handwavy
• positive degree: handwavy
• infinitive: to handwave
• gerund: handwaving
• participle: handwaved

Origin and Evolution of handwavy

First Known Use: 1997 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The word 'handwavy' originates from the gesture of waving one's hand to dismiss or downplay something, often used in discussions or arguments.

Evolution of the word: Initially used to describe a dismissive or vague explanation, 'handwavy' has evolved to also encompass behavior or arguments lacking substance or credibility.