prude

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "prude" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is excessively prim, proper, or controlled in their behavior, especially when it comes to sexual matters. For example, "Many people believe that my grandmother is a prude because she finds it inappropriate to talk about sex in public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Only a prude would expect their politicians not to exaggerate.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, we know he was a prude and I perceive him, to a certain degree, as a prick and smug and that is where we start.

The Guardian - Film

Austen was no prude.

The Economist

And while she had shrugged off ridicule on such occasions as her setting up a public morals squad (the "chastity commission" of popular parlance) or, prude though she was, her enlisting the help of Louis XV's mistress, Mme de Pompadour, in order to obtain the French alliance, the accusation of "lachrymose hypocrisy" raised in foreign courts during the Polish affair distressed her.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For his performance of this task Daniele earned the nickname Il Braghettone (or Brachettone; "The Breeches Maker"), as well as an undeserved posthumous reputation as a prude.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If that surprises you, it shouldn't –after all, "slut" is just the other side of the same sexist coin that calls women "frigid" or "prude".

Independent

Frank Sinatra is just right as the sharply dressed but endlessly harassed gambler Nathan Detroit, while Marlon Brando brings a Method-style intensity as well as an unexpected charm to his role as the hustler Sky Masterson, out to seduce Salvation Army prude Jean Simmons to win an outlandish bet.

Independent

The cast is so diverse – there are black people, transgender people, Hispanic people…" The series is also notable for its lesbian sex scenes, which offers a more candid and less prude take than other shows.

Independent

"I wasn't really allowed to enter into their homes – people in Brittany are a bit shy, or prude," as she puts it.

Independent

I'm actually a bit of a prude at heart.

Independent

For the record, I'm neither ageist nor a prude.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the term "prude", be mindful of its potentially negative connotations. Consider the context and whether a more neutral term like 'conservative' or 'modest' might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid assuming that anyone with traditional values or discomfort with explicit content is automatically a "prude". The term implies an excessive or judgmental attitude, not simply a preference for modesty.

Linguistic Context

The word "prude" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a person who is excessively proper or modest, especially in sexual matters. As Ludwig AI suggests, it can also be used as an adjective to describe someone as prudish. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its application in various contexts, from political commentary to personal descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Ludwig analysis indicates that "prude" is a common word, functioning as a noun or adjective to describe someone excessively concerned with propriety, especially in sexual matters. While grammatically correct, using "prude" requires careful consideration due to its potentially negative connotations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and highlights various contexts, primarily in News & Media sources. When writing, be mindful of the subtle differences between "prude" and similar terms like "conservative" or "modest", and avoid assuming that discomfort with explicit content automatically equates to being a "prude". The term implies an excessive, often judgmental, attitude. As Ludwig examples show, it's a term frequently encountered in discussions of social norms, political figures, and artistic expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

puritan

Highlights the strict religious or moral principles often associated with a "prude".

moralist

Emphasizes adherence to a strict moral code, which is a component of being a "prude".

straight-laced individual

Emphasizes strictness in conduct and morality, similar to a "prude".

strait-laced person

Similar to 'straight-laced individual', emphasizing a rigid adherence to moral principles and a discomfort with anything perceived as risque.

overly modest person

Directly describes someone who is excessively reserved or shy, especially about their body or sexuality.

goody-two-shoes

A more informal and often derogatory term for someone who is excessively virtuous and proper.

stickler for propriety

Focuses on someone who insists on proper behavior and etiquette, a characteristic of a "prude".

Victorian

Implies adherence to the strict social and sexual mores of the Victorian era, a historical context for "prude"-like behavior.

conventionalist

Stresses adherence to social norms and traditions, a trait that can overlap with being a "prude".

square

Colloquial term indicating a person is not up to date with trends, has conservative tastes and is not adventurous.

FAQs

How can I use "prude" in a sentence?

You can use "prude" to describe someone who is excessively concerned with modesty and sexual propriety. For example, "Some considered her a prude because she disapproved of risqué jokes."

What's the difference between "prude" and "conservative"?

"Prude" implies an excessive or judgmental level of concern about sexual matters, while "conservative" simply means adhering to traditional values.

What are some synonyms for "prude"?

Synonyms for "prude" include "puritan", "moralist", and "stickler for propriety", though each carries slightly different connotations.

Is it offensive to call someone a "prude"?

Calling someone a "prude" can be offensive because it suggests they are overly judgmental and repressed. It is important to consider the context and potential impact of using the term.