pusillanimity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pusillanimity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of courage or determination, often referring to someone who is timid or cowardly. Example: "His pusillanimity in the face of adversity was disappointing to his colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

But for the EU to go ahead with new "partnership" talks now would send a message of astounding pusillanimity.

The Economist

For most European countries, the cowardice over Tibet is just regular pusillanimity: the same attitude that leaves Georgia in the lurch, Ukraine in the cold, Belarus in the dark and Russia ruled by murderous bandits.

The Economist

Like this reviewer, Mr Vaughan is a former BBC man in Prague; he is pitiless in his analysis of its pusillanimity.

The Economist

America had only its pusillanimity to regret, Reagan said: the "greatest immorality" involved sending young men to fight a war America was not "willing to win".

The Economist

Some are beginning to smell a climb-down.Such pusillanimity pleases opponents of ID cards, many of whom see disadvantages beyond data leaks.

The Economist

It was part of a bigger story of Soviet machinations, allied pusillanimity and the desperation of the Nazi retreat, with a leadership panicked by the failed assassination plot against Hitler only weeks earlier in July 1944.Ms Richie paints a particularly vivid portrait of the greatest villains of the story, the RONA, a Russian nationalist army recruited by the Nazis.

The Economist

Writers in the 1960s, most famously Rolf Hochhuth in his 1963 play "The Representative", condemned Pius XII for passivity and pusillanimity.

The Economist

And there have already been four Iraq inquiries, though none as comprehensive as this one.Some reckon its failure to unearth masses of new information is down to a mix of mendacious reticence on the part of key witnesses and the pusillanimity of their inquisitors.

The Economist

And although politicians' pusillanimity is regrettable, it is not up to unelected central bankers to punish them.

The Economist

By ramping up its words and deeds against the "Zionist regime" and taunting the Arab governments for their relative pusillanimity, Iran reaches over the heads of the Arab leaders directly to the passions of the street.

The Economist

Pusillanimity is another.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pusillanimity" when you want to convey a sense of learned or habitual cowardice, especially within formal writing. It suggests a deeper character flaw than simple fear.

Common error

Avoid using "pusillanimity" in contexts where simple fear or timidity is meant. Its formal tone and implication of a fundamental character flaw makes it unsuitable for casual situations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "pusillanimity" is as a noun. It refers to the quality or state of being pusillanimous, representing a lack of courage or resolution. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Pusillanimity" is a noun denoting a lack of courage or resolve, often used in formal contexts to critique a perceived failing of character. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in reputable sources like The Economist, The New York Times, and The Guardian. While alternatives like "cowardice" and "timidity" exist, "pusillanimity" carries a more sophisticated and critical tone. When using this word, ensure the context warrants its formal register and that the intent is to highlight a deep-seated lack of courage rather than a momentary lapse in bravery. The frequent use of "pusillanimity" in News & Media confirms its relevance in describing behaviors in the public sphere.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cowardice

Refers to a lack of bravery and willingness to face danger or difficulty. It's a more direct and commonly used term.

timidity

Indicates a lack of self-assurance or boldness. It suggests shyness and hesitancy.

fearfulness

Emphasizes the presence of fear and anxiety, leading to a lack of courage.

lack of courage

A straightforward description of not possessing bravery. It lacks the subtle judgment implied by "pusillanimity".

spinelessness

Suggests a lack of moral fiber and an inability to stand up for one's beliefs.

weakness of will

Highlights a deficiency in determination and resolve to act decisively.

faintheartedness

Implies a lack of enthusiasm and determination due to fear or doubt.

chickenheartedness

A more informal and colloquial term for lacking courage.

cravenness

Indicates extreme cowardice and a willingness to submit to avoid danger.

irresolution

Focuses on the inability to make firm decisions or take decisive action.

FAQs

How to use "pusillanimity" in a sentence?

You can use "pusillanimity" to describe someone's lack of courage or resolve in the face of adversity. For example: "The politician's "pusillanimity" on the issue was widely criticized".

What can I say instead of "pusillanimity"?

You can use alternatives like "cowardice", "timidity", or "lack of courage" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "pusillanimity" or "pusillanimousness"?

"Pusillanimity" and "pusillanimousness" are largely interchangeable, both referring to the state of being pusillanimous. "Pusillanimity" is slightly more common.

What's the difference between "pusillanimity" and "fear"?

"Fear" is a basic emotion, while ""pusillanimity"" is a character trait indicating habitual cowardice or a lack of resolve. "Pusillanimity" implies a moral failing beyond simply experiencing fear.