jib

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "jib" is correct and usable in written English, but it is context-dependent.
You can use it when referring to a type of sail on a boat or in a metaphorical sense to describe something that is not aligned or is out of place. Example: "The boat's jib flapped wildly in the wind as we navigated through the storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They also like the cut of his jib.

The Economist

He is proud, too, of his part in setting up a German-Polish-Danish corps.The Russians, and probably their Serb friends, do not like the cut of his jib.

The Economist

And on July 1st the government was humiliatingly forced to withdraw another bill to change the way France chooses its Euro-MPs.The Communists also jib at the continuing sale, in whole or part, of public companies, especially since Mr Jospin's Socialists said they would "stop the process of privatisation".

The Economist

A score might be enough to begin with, but since the Africans cannot provide even this number the choppers (and pilots) will have to come from elsewhere.The government in Sudan's capital, Khartoum, may jib at the prospect of West Europeans or Americans providing or flying aircraft over Darfur, so it would be good if Russia or India were to help out.

The Economist

But there'sSomething about the cut of his jib that'sAlways rankled.

The Economist

They'll jib, of course, and mutter about free speech.

The Economist

While Jelly Roll Morton might jib at being merely classed as one of "The Folk", he would certainly applaud Lomax's homage to the unique world in which he played such a magnificent part.

The Economist

Bankers might jib at funding a deal with the Taliban.With so many options and so many competing interests, it is hard to predict where the pipelines will run.

The Economist

Some frequent users will jib at a paywall, but some will fork out.

The Economist

Turkey may jib at the annual subsidy, worth some $600m a year, that it has to pay the isolated north.

The Economist

When pressed about the wisdom of installing his 30-year-old son as president and chief financial officer, the steelman appeared to jib.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To prevent confusion, specify which meaning of "jib" you are using by providing context related to sailing, construction, or reluctance.

Common error

Avoid using "cut of his "jib" without understanding its nautical origins. It refers to someone's appearance or character, not literally cutting something.

Linguistic Context

The word "jib" functions as both a noun, referring to a triangular sail or a crane arm, and a verb, meaning to be reluctant or refuse to proceed. Ludwig examples show its use in sailing and idiomatic expressions. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "jib" is versatile, functioning as both a noun and a verb with distinct meanings tied to sailing, construction, and reluctance. The phrase "cut of his "jib" adds a layer of idiomatic expression relating to character assessment. Ludwig highlights its correct and usable nature across diverse contexts. The frequency of "jib" in News & Media and Encyclopedias underscores its broad relevance, while the related phrases and writing guidance offer valuable insights for precise and effective communication. In conclusion, whether navigating the seas or evaluating someone's demeanor, understanding the nuances of "jib" enhances both comprehension and expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

balk

A synonym expressing reluctance to proceed, mirroring the verb sense of "jib".

staysail

This is a more specific term for a type of sail, directly replacing "jib" in a nautical context.

hesitate

Indicates pausing or reluctance before doing something, similar to the verb form of "jib".

fore sail

A broader term referring to any sail set forward of the mast, encompassing the function of a "jib".

be unwilling

Expresses a lack of desire to do something, reflecting the reluctance aspect of "jib".

crane arm

Specifically refers to the projecting arm of a crane, replacing the "jib" in a mechanical context.

camera boom

This denotes the crane used for moving a video camera, specifying the "jib's" function in filmmaking.

cut of someone's cloth

An alternative idiomatic expression to "cut of his jib" referring to someone's disposition.

general demeanor

A direct replacement for "cut of his jib" when describing someone's overall behavior.

outrigger

This refers to a supporting structure similar to a crane "jib".

FAQs

What does "cut of someone's "jib" mean?

The phrase "cut of someone's "jib" refers to their general appearance, manner, or character. It's an idiomatic expression derived from sailing.

How can I use "jib" in a sentence about sailing?

You might say, "The sailor adjusted the "jib" to catch the wind" or "The boat sailed smoothly with its "jib" fully extended."

What's an alternative to saying someone "jibbed" at a task?

Instead of saying someone "jibbed" at a task, you could say they "hesitated", "baulked", or "were reluctant" to proceed.

Is it correct to use "jib" to describe a part of a crane?

Yes, "jib" can refer to the projecting arm of a crane. It's a technical term in engineering and construction.