slightly impudent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly impudent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is being somewhat disrespectful or cheeky, but not in an overtly offensive way. Example: "Her slightly impudent remark caught everyone off guard, as it was both humorous and a bit bold."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I'm not at liberty to say," he replies, to a slightly impudent question about who might play Arsène Wenger.

The Guardian - Sport

That apart, Liverpool can reflect on a hugely satisfying evening and it would have felt slightly impudent to point out that not even the most optimistic Kopite can expect Everton to defend as generously as the team who are fourth in the Russian Premier League.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Moody does have a somewhat impudent reputation.

Huffington Post

The face, impudent, porcine, and juvenile, is turned toward the building he put up—all thirty-four stofit inf it—in slightly more than a year, mostly with federal money.

The New Yorker

Impudent wretch!

The New York Times

disclosures as "impudent slander".

The New Yorker

Its ugliness is impudent.

The New Yorker

Those impudent pretenders!

The New York Times - Sports

regards an impudent mailroom clerk.

The New York Times

Impudent, scurrilous, impious it may be.

The New York Times

Their wills are reinforced by impudent misanthropy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slightly impudent" to describe actions or remarks that are cheeky or disrespectful in a mild or playful way. It's suitable for situations where the intent isn't malicious but still pushes boundaries.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly impudent" in highly formal or professional settings where even mild disrespect is inappropriate. Opt for more neutral language or phrases that convey disagreement or concern without being cheeky.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly impudent" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the quality of someone or something as being mildly disrespectful or cheeky, but not overtly offensive. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly impudent" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that combines an adverb of degree with an adjective to describe something as mildly disrespectful or cheeky. According to Ludwig, this phrase is suitable for describing behavior that pushes boundaries without being overtly offensive. While its usage is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and sports contexts, it can add a nuanced layer to your writing. Consider alternatives such as "somewhat cheeky" or "mildly disrespectful" depending on the specific context and desired tone. However, it might not be suited for overly formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat cheeky

This alternative uses "cheeky" instead of "impudent", suggesting a more playful and less formal tone.

mildly disrespectful

This option replaces "impudent" with "disrespectful" and "slightly" with "mildly", emphasizing the lack of respect but keeping it subdued.

a bit saucy

Replaces "impudent" with "saucy", conveying a sense of playful boldness or flirtatiousness.

rather impertinent

Uses "impertinent" as a more formal synonym for "impudent", suggesting a more deliberate lack of respect.

somewhat irreverent

Replaces "impudent" with "irreverent", indicating a lack of respect for things usually taken seriously.

slightly audacious

Uses "audacious" instead of "impudent", suggesting boldness and a willingness to take risks.

a touch insolent

Replaces "impudent" with "insolent", implying a more arrogant and disrespectful attitude.

somewhat presumptuous

This emphasizes the act of overstepping boundaries or making assumptions without justification.

a little impolite

This offers a more general and less severe alternative, focusing on a lack of politeness.

marginally brazen

Replaces "impudent" with "brazen", suggesting a more open and shocking lack of shame or embarrassment.

FAQs

What does "slightly impudent" mean?

The phrase "slightly impudent" describes behavior or remarks that are somewhat disrespectful or cheeky, but not overtly offensive or rude. It suggests a mild form of boldness that pushes boundaries without being malicious.

How can I use "slightly impudent" in a sentence?

You might say, "Her "slightly impudent" question caught everyone off guard, but it also made them think". Another example is, "He gave a "slightly impudent" grin as he walked away".

What are some alternatives to "slightly impudent"?

Alternatives include "somewhat cheeky", "mildly disrespectful", or "a bit saucy" depending on the specific context and desired tone.

Is "slightly impudent" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "slightly impudent" might be too informal for very formal writing. Consider using a more neutral or professional alternative like "somewhat bold" or "a little disrespectful" if a more serious tone is required.