boobs

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "boobs" is an informal word and is not appropriate in formal written English.
In informal contexts, the word can be used to refer to a woman's breasts. For example: "She was proud of her curves and her beautiful boobs."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I've heard it gives you man boobs," says O'Malley, 28, deadpan.

The Guardian - Music

The truth, revealed through a fun before/after gif, was rather underwhelming, as it transpired that Vogue had basically covered her boobs, shaved a little off her hips and popped her through a filter.

The Guardian - Arts

The boobs are dead, long live the boobs.

The Guardian - Opinion

Penis flashing It's boobs that are being flashed on the stage at Soko and Tove Lo.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Jezebel called out its futility, long before it was outed as a hoax: Last summer's viral ALS Ice Bucket challenge has given way to this year's contender for 'worst way to make anyone aware of anything while showing off your body', the aptly named 'Hold a Coke With Your Boobs Challenge'.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

His editorial philosophy, he explained, was to publish "the biggest boobs possible" in every issue.

The Guardian

"He got an eyeful of our boobs and then got embarrassed," says Becky, holding her 16-month-old daughter Iris.

The Guardian

Along the way, anyone connected to Sean Bean will die, and there will be twice as many boobs as monologues.

The Guardian

The following day, the boobs were back.

The Guardian

AN ENGLISHMAN likes a routine: Marmite on his toast, warm beer in his glass, bad teeth in his mouth and, for a couple of million readers of the Sun, a squint at Kelly from Daventry's boobs on Page 3.

The Economist

Good riddance to saggy boobs and varicose-veiny legs so red, white and blue that she could wave them on the Fourth of July.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the context when choosing a term for breasts to avoid causing offense or discomfort.

Common error

Avoid using the term "boobs" in professional or academic writing. Opt for more neutral and appropriate terms like "breasts" to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "boobs" is as a plural noun. It refers to the mammary glands, typically of a woman. Ludwig AI considers its usage informal, therefore it should be used carefully.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "boobs" is an informal plural noun referring to breasts. As Ludwig AI states, it is generally considered acceptable but inappropriate for formal contexts, where "breasts" or "mammary glands" are preferred. Usage is very common in News & Media. When writing, be mindful of your audience and choose the most appropriate term to avoid causing offense. While "boobs" might be suitable in casual conversation, formal writing requires more neutral language. Alternative phrases include "breasts", "bosoms", or other context-appropriate terms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

breasts

A more neutral and widely accepted term for mammary glands.

bosoms

A slightly old-fashioned or literary term for breasts.

busts

Refers to the chest area, often emphasizing size.

tits

A more vulgar and informal synonym for breasts.

mammary glands

A formal, anatomical term.

chest

A general term for the upper torso, including the breasts.

cleavage

Refers to the visible area between the breasts, often in low-cut clothing.

norks

A slang term, primarily used in British English.

baps

A colloquial term, primarily used in British English.

boobies

A cutesy or infantilizing term for breasts.

FAQs

What does the word "boobs" mean?

The word "boobs" is an informal term for breasts.

What are some alternative terms for "boobs"?

Some alternative terms include "breasts", "bosoms", and "tits", depending on the level of formality and context.

Is it appropriate to use the word "boobs" in formal writing?

No, it is generally not appropriate to use "boobs" in formal writing. Use more neutral terms like "breasts" or "mammary glands" instead.

What is the difference between "boobs" and "breasts"?

"Boobs" is an informal and sometimes vulgar term, while "breasts" is a more neutral and widely accepted term for the same anatomical feature.