Weasel Word

Pronunciation: /ˈwiːzəl wɜrd/

Definitions of weasel word

noun a word or phrase that is intentionally ambiguous or misleading

Example Sentences

A1 I heard a weasel word on the news today.

A2 The politician used a weasel word to avoid answering the question directly.

B1 It's important to be aware of weasel words in advertising.

B2 Journalists should be careful not to use weasel words in their reporting.

C1 The lawyer's argument was full of weasel words, trying to manipulate the jury.

C2 In academic writing, it's crucial to avoid using weasel words to strengthen your arguments.

Examples of weasel word in a Sentence

formal The use of weasel words in scientific literature can undermine the credibility of the research findings.

informal I don't trust politicians who constantly use weasel words to avoid giving straight answers.

slang Stop using weasel words and just be honest with me!

figurative Her promises were full of weasel words, leaving me unsure of her true intentions.

Grammatical Forms of weasel word

• past tense: weaseled
• plural: weasel words
• comparative: more weasel-like
• superlative: most weasel-like
• present tense: weasel
• future tense: will weasel
• perfect tense: have weaseled
• continuous tense: is weaseling
• singular: weasel word
• positive degree: weasel
• infinitive: to weasel
• gerund: weaseling
• participle: weaseled

Origin and Evolution of weasel word

First Known Use: 1900 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'weasel word' originated from the practice of using the word 'weasel' to describe someone who is deceitful or cunning. Weasels are known for their sly and sneaky behavior, hence the association with deceptive language.

Evolution of the word: Over time, 'weasel word' has come to specifically refer to words or phrases that are used to deceive or manipulate without outright lying. It has become a common term in discussions about misleading language in advertising, politics, and other forms of communication.