spanking

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "spanking" is a correct and usable term in written English.
It is most commonly used as a verb meaning to "hit someone, typically a child, with a flat object on the buttocks as a punishment." For example, "The parents felt it was important to spank their misbehaving child to teach him a lesson."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As the most distinctive feature of ancient cities, this particular one is in fact spanking new and unfinished: a gap in its western stretch ranging hundreds of metres is waiting to be sealed up.

The Guardian

In fact, the only group that was starkly different in its views on spanking was the minority who reported not having been spanked themselves as children; in this group, 50% said that spanking a child was never appropriate.

The Guardian - Sport

A Harris Interactive poll in 2013 found that 81% of Americans say that parents spanking their children is at least sometimes appropriate, and 67% said they had spanked their child.

The Guardian - Sport

That is more than in many other rich countries, 20 of which have banned spanking even by parents.

The Economist

Pennsylvania contains beaten-up rustbelt towns but also spanking corridors of high-tech start-ups and big-box stores.

The Economist

An additional billion pounds is being invested in 46 smaller schemes.Patients seem sure to welcome spanking new buildings replacing grotty, run-down hospitals.

The Economist

Other projects in the works include a $10 billion housing development called Dubai Marina, a $1.6 billion Festival City, a $150m zoo and a recreation of "Old Dubai .The city's airport handled 12.3m passengers last year, and opened a spanking new 20m-capacity terminal.

The Economist

By comparison, two in three young women, according to a poll by More! magazine, claim to have experimented with bondage or spanking.

The Economist

He has also acquired, for his police force, a fleet of spanking new Hyundai patrol cars that certainly did not come in under oil-for-food.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Again, Mr Pfeiffer notices the expected correlations with crime and punishment.Mr Pfeiffer also observes a connection between religion and child-spanking.

The Economist

He helped them find free space in a spanking-new building, with spectacular views of the harbour.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "spanking" to describe something new, consider whether a more straightforward adjective like "brand new" or "completely new" might be clearer and less ambiguous.

Common error

Avoid using "spanking" as an intensifier in formal writing. While phrases like "brand spanking new" are common, they can sound informal or cliché in professional contexts.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "spanking" varies depending on the context. It can function as a verb (present participle of "spank"), adjective, noun, or adverb. Ludwig's examples showcase its use across these different parts of speech.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "spanking" can function as a verb, adjective, noun, or adverb, each carrying distinct connotations. Most commonly, as validated by Ludwig, it references a form of physical punishment, but can also act as an intensifier describing something as "brand new". While generally acceptable, its appropriateness varies by context, with formal settings often preferring alternative terms. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, "spanking" appears frequently in News & Media sources, with a neutral register, but when used as an intensifier, it assumes a more informal tone. Be mindful of the potential ambiguity and choose your words precisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

paddling

Refers specifically to hitting with a paddle, a type of spanking.

corporal punishment

A more formal and general term for physical punishment.

physical discipline

Focuses on the disciplinary aspect rather than the specific act of hitting.

swift punishment

Highlights the quick and immediate nature of the punishment.

administering a beating

More aggressive and forceful, implying a severe form of punishment.

disciplinary action

Broader term encompassing various methods of correction.

giving a hiding

A colloquial term for a beating, suggesting a less formal context.

whipping

Implies a more severe punishment using a whip or similar instrument.

brand new

Emphasizes the novelty and freshness, similar to the intensifier usage of "spanking".

fresh

Highlights the quality of being new and unused, like "spanking new".

FAQs

How is "spanking" used as a verb?

As a verb, "spanking" typically refers to hitting someone, especially a child, on the buttocks as a form of punishment. For example, "The parents were considering "spanking" their child for misbehaving".

What does "spanking" mean when used as an adjective?

When used as an adjective, "spanking" can mean fast and energetic, brisk and fresh, or remarkable. For example, "a "spanking pace"" or "a "spanking breeze"".

Are there contexts where using the word "spanking" is inappropriate?

Yes, in contexts discussing child abuse or violence, using "spanking" can be insensitive. In formal or academic settings, it's important to use more neutral or clinical terms like "corporal punishment" or "physical discipline".

What are some alternatives to "spanking new"?

Alternatives to "spanking new" include "brand new", "completely new", "pristine", or "immaculate". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.