prudish

USAGE SUMMARY

"prudish" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is an adjective that means excessively or affectedly proper, modest, or demure in behavior, appearance, or language. Example sentence: Fannie's prudish behavior while out on a date made her seem quite snobbish.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is nothing wrong with a hint of glamour in this dull and increasingly prudish world.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But whilst it's easy for some to dismiss those calling for Scudamore's resignation as prudish, comments like his can have a damaging effect on workplace culture that needs to be tackled from the top.

The Guardian

Sure, Cyrus almost certainly knew the Adore You video would spark a prudish outcry, but it's still the least flashy thing she's done of late.

The Guardian - Music

But it is also a land so prudish that its film industry has only recently started to show kisses on screen.

The Economist

Europeans unvexed by nudity might then escape American advertisers' prudish standards.

The Economist

The difference, he would say, is that even the most prudish Victorians saw sexuality largely as a private matter, which the state should neither judge nor attempt to regulate.

The Economist

They glorified the human body in a way that was too explicit for the prudish Fidel Castro.The agenda of rapid development often fell victim to the corruption and incompetence endemic to Latin America, with its tragic cycles of military coups and civil wars.

The Economist

Your prudish shock would be heartily endorsed by your top-ranked monarch Queen Victoria.Anthony LunnPrinceton, New JerseyWait a cotton pickin' minuteSIR – As a proud South Carolinian, I must tell you that you have incorrectly identified the Sea Island states ("A great yarn", December 20th).

The Economist

This is actually a controversial issue in America, and I find that absurd.As to why societies with prudish or puritan attitudes towards sex would have higher teen-pregnancy and abortion rates, I think this has been addressed pretty well over the decades.

The Economist

Conservatives generally achieved that in the bedroom, though the country now seems to have become less prudish; in opposition, one of the main peccadilloes for which Tories get the boot is holding retrograde views on race.

The Economist

It is also somewhat alarming.Leave it open on your desk at work, and prudish colleagues or bosses may think your reading matter highly unsuitable.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prudish", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. While it generally describes someone who is overly concerned with propriety, the intensity and context can vary. Alternatives like "puritanical" or "strait-laced" can carry stronger connotations.

Common error

Avoid assuming that differing cultural norms are inherently "prudish". What may seem overly conservative in one culture may be perfectly acceptable or even expected in another. Always consider the cultural context.

Linguistic Context

The word "prudish" primarily functions as an adjective. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing individuals, societies, or behaviors exhibiting excessive propriety or aversion to sexuality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and accepted term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "prudish" is commonly employed to describe individuals or societies demonstrating an exaggerated concern with propriety, particularly concerning sexuality. Ludwig examples from various sources, including news media and encyclopedias, showcase the word's application in diverse contexts. While grammatically sound and frequently used, it's important to consider potential cultural sensitivities and avoid applying the term judgmentally. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the term is correct and usable in written English. Be mindful of the subtle nuances and choose the most appropriate descriptor for the intended meaning, considering alternatives like "puritanical" or "strait-laced" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

puritanical

Implies strictness, severity, and intolerance, especially in moral or religious matters.

strait-laced

Highlights strictness in moral or religious principles and a resistance to change.

excessively proper

Focuses on adhering strictly to rules of conduct, sometimes to an extreme.

prim and proper

Suggests meticulousness in behavior and adherence to social norms.

overly modest

Emphasizes a lack of display or show, often regarding personal qualities or achievements.

Victorian

Alludes to the moral standards and social conventions prevalent during Queen Victoria's reign.

old-fashioned

Indicates adherence to outdated customs or beliefs.

conservative

Highlights a preference for traditional values and resistance to change.

demure

Emphasizes modesty and reserve, often in a coy or affected manner.

square-toed

Suggests conventionality and resistance to new ideas or practices.

FAQs

How can I use "prudish" in a sentence?

You can use "prudish" to describe someone who is excessively concerned with sexual propriety or modesty. For example, "Her "prudish" attitude towards dating made it difficult for her to find a partner who shared her values."

What's a less judgmental alternative to "prudish"?

If you want to avoid sounding critical, you could use terms like "conservative", "modest", or "traditional" to describe someone's views on sexuality or morality. However, make sure to choose the word that accurately reflects the person's beliefs and doesn't misrepresent them.

Is it offensive to call someone "prudish"?

It depends on the context and your intention. If you're using it to criticize or mock someone, it can be offensive. However, if you're simply describing someone's behavior or beliefs in a neutral way, it may not be. Consider your audience and the potential impact of your words before using the term.

What is the difference between "prudish" and "conservative"?

"Prudish" typically relates to attitudes about sexuality and modesty, implying excessive concern. "Conservative" is a broader term referring to traditional values across various aspects of life, including but not limited to morality and social behavior. A person can be "conservative" without being "prudish", and vice versa.