junkie

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "junkie" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to someone addicted to drugs, usually illicit drugs, such as heroin or cocaine. For example: "He was a heroin junkie who didn't care about his own wellbeing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He used the pen name William Lee in his first published book, Junkie: Confessions of an Unredeemed Drug Addict (1953, reissued as Junky in 1977), an account of the addict's life.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Even so, for an Idol junkie like me (I've watched the show since season one, when Kelly Clarkson was crowned America's newest pop princess), there was more than a little heartache in the announcement.

The Guardian - Music

"He's an even bigger subsidy junkie than I thought," wrote Chakrabortty.

The Guardian

Or when Bubbles goads the junkie bully, thinking he has Herc to come and back him up, only to be beaten severely?

The Guardian

Beyond the "dirty junkie" cliches and the fear of disease, one of the reasons why heroin is still taboo is that it wipes away the sense of responsibility to the collective, to the herd.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's the perfect soundtrack to the junkie life.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

From the junkie princess to the blackmailing bodyguard, everyone's either fighting or shagging the whole time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Scarily, I've now become a "user"; a 'fold junkie.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She makes smart look stupid (and back again) and is fearless in multiple ways: as a gobby libertarian, a doctor attending medical emergencies, a fashion junkie working clashing prints and colours.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In fact Bree is a thrill-seeking adrenaline junkie who seeks out danger with gusto and reckless abandon.

The Guardian

Pacadis held a doctorate from the Sorbonne and styled himself a "junkie existentialist".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "junkie", be mindful of the potentially stigmatizing connotations and consider alternative terms like 'person with substance use disorder' in sensitive contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "junkie" to describe someone simply enthusiastic about something unless it's clearly understood as a lighthearted or humorous comparison. Otherwise, it can be misconstrued and cause offense.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "junkie" is as a noun, referring to a person addicted to drugs or someone with a strong enthusiasm for something. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, providing examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "junkie" is a commonly used noun that refers to someone addicted to drugs or, informally, someone with a strong enthusiasm. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, while grammatically correct, the term carries potential stigma, urging careful consideration of context and possible alternatives like "drug addict" or "enthusiast". Its frequent appearance in news and media reflects its role in describing addiction and passion, making it crucial to understand both its denotative and connotative implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drug addict

A more clinical and direct term for someone addicted to drugs.

heroin addict

Specifically refers to addiction to heroin.

narcotics addict

Similar to 'drug addict' but emphasizes the use of narcotics.

addict

A general term for someone with any kind of addiction, not necessarily drugs.

fiend

Implies a more intense and uncontrolled addiction or enthusiasm.

enthusiast

Refers to a strong passion or liking for something, not necessarily a substance.

fanatic

Similar to enthusiast, but with a stronger connotation of obsession.

devotee

Suggests dedication and loyalty to something.

aficionado

Implies a sophisticated appreciation and knowledge of something.

lover

A more general term for someone who enjoys something very much.

FAQs

How can I use "junkie" in a sentence?

You can use "junkie" to describe someone addicted to drugs, such as "He was a heroin junkie." It can also describe someone very enthusiastic about something, like "She's a travel junkie."

What is a less offensive synonym for "junkie"?

Consider using more neutral terms like "drug addict" or "person with substance use disorder" to avoid stigmatizing language.

Is it appropriate to use "junkie" to describe someone who is not addicted to drugs?

While "junkie" can be used informally to describe someone very enthusiastic about something, it's important to be mindful of the negative connotations associated with drug addiction. Use it with caution and consider alternatives like "enthusiast" or "fanatic".

What's the difference between "junkie" and "addict"?

"Addict" is a broader term that can refer to someone with any type of addiction, while "junkie" specifically refers to someone addicted to drugs and can carry a more negative connotation.