putz

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'putz' is a Yiddish term that has become commonly used in American English.
It is an informal and derogatory term for a foolish or ineffectual person. It is considered mildly offensive. Example: "I can't believe he broke his phone again. What a putz."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The videos, which Pentagon briefers milked with both fists for their propaganda value, depict Bin Laden as a beard-dyeing putz wrapped up in his TV blanket on a couch in his ramshackle media room, using a remote control to channel-surf satellite news for coverage of himself.

The Economist

When the script had Walt acknowledge that he'd shot his partner, Mike, needlessly, Cranston held up production for an hour because he believed the line would turn Walt into a putz and trivialize Mike's death.

The New Yorker

As Roth's Alexander Portnoy tells us, "Ven der putz shteht, ligt der sechel in drerd" — a Yiddish saying that means, more or less, that when desire comes in the door judgment jumps out the window and cracks its skull on the pavement.

The New Yorker

Here's one Onee very hairy man pulled off Rhumpa's panties and clapped them to his nose and went, "Aaaah!" He jerked out his putz and splashed on her pussyfloss.

The New Yorker

"A couple of weddings in Williamsburg and that putz thinks he understands Orthodox Jews!" he'd snort with a roll of the eyes that seemed to trace the full circumference of the globe.

The New York Times

I let it be known that there was more than one putz with a camera on Camp Street.

The New York Times - Magazine

What a putz.

The Guardian - Sport

I could hit the high notes as well as the low, and thus had no difficulty in understanding Claude's characterization of the ambassador as a "putz," a "jerkoff" with "his head up his ass" who was in denial about the city's imminent fall.

The Guardian - Books

That's Billy Joel all over – a downhome putz who'd willingly ditch the glitz of Beverly Hills for somewhere he could get the New York Daily News on day of publication.

The Guardian - Music

But a movie needs its stakes raised, so he's clumsily turned into a baddie (and a Jewish stereotype, to boot, but I'll give Hess the benefit and say he's too much of a putz to be intentionally malicious).

The Guardian - Film

Now, this putz, this cyber-putz is hiding in England, but they can't find him.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "putz", be mindful of your audience and the context. While common, it can be considered offensive by some, so reserve it for informal settings or when a slightly harsh tone is acceptable.

Common error

Avoid using "putz" in formal writing or professional communications. Its informal and slightly derogatory nature is inappropriate for such settings. Opt for more neutral terms like "fool", "inept person", or "mistake" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The word "putz" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a person considered foolish, inept, or contemptible. As Ludwig AI points out, it's an informal and derogatory term of Yiddish origin that has entered common American English usage. Examples show it used to express frustration or disdain towards someone's actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "putz" is an informal and somewhat offensive noun of Yiddish origin used to describe a foolish or inept person. As demonstrated by Ludwig, its usage is common in News & Media, but it is generally inappropriate for formal settings. Be mindful of your audience and context when using this term. Consider alternatives like "fool" or "idiot" depending on the specific nuance. Although "putz" is found in reputable sources, its derogatory connotation warrants careful consideration before use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fool

A general term for someone lacking intelligence or good judgment.

idiot

Similar to "fool" but often implies a greater degree of stupidity.

jerk

Refers to someone who is inconsiderate or obnoxious.

asshole

A vulgar term for someone who is extremely unpleasant or contemptible.

moron

Implies a very low level of intelligence.

blockhead

A less offensive, somewhat old-fashioned term for a stupid person.

simpleton

Suggests naivety and lack of understanding.

nitwit

A mildly derogatory term for a foolish or stupid person.

dunce

A person who is slow at learning; a stupid person.

nincompoop

A foolish or stupid person.

FAQs

What does "putz" mean?

"Putz" is a Yiddish term that has been adopted into American English. It's an informal, derogatory term for a foolish or inept person, similar to saying someone is an "idiot" or "jerk".

Is it offensive to call someone a "putz"?

Yes, calling someone a "putz" is generally considered offensive. While its level of offensiveness might be less severe than more vulgar insults, it's still a derogatory term that can be hurtful or disrespectful. Consider your audience and the situation before using it.

Are there less offensive alternatives to "putz"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "fool", "idiot", "incompetent person", or "blockhead". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I use "putz" in a sentence?

You can use "putz" to describe someone you think is acting foolishly or ineptly. For example, "He locked his keys in the car again; what a putz!" Remember that it's an informal and somewhat offensive term, so use it with caution.