wanker

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "wanker" is considered offensive slang and is not appropriate for formal writing.
It can be used in informal conversations or texts with close friends. Example: "Don't be such a wanker!".

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thus we spray-painted terrible puns onto bed sheets (oh look, another "Declaration of Waugh") and hoisted them in the air as banners, we slapped on our terry toweling hats, we bought the souvenir tour guides and Channel Nine propaganda pamphlets - still walking away with change from a $10 note – and marvelled in the peerless humour of calling Richard Hadlee a wanker all day.

The Guardian - Sport

He's a bit of a wanker, I observe.

The Guardian

If a beautiful, sexy woman tells you to chill out and stop being a wanker, you do it.

The Guardian - Music

With considerable effort, the historian might summon up a vague sense of irritation at the occasional use of the word "wanker", which was not recorded before the 1940s.

The Guardian - Film

"They just went, 'WANKER!'" With all due respect, I say, I can't believe it took two weeks for someone to call you a wanker.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's interesting that the insult that pushes him over the edge – being called a Malaka (wanker) by Double G – is the same one that George mutters quietly when Nick first brings Ziggy to the diner.

The Guardian

"Not a wanker.

The Guardian

Hardly anyone survives the Westminster bear-pit the small matter, as another Labear-pit theencher pithily desmalles it, of "facing 300 angry white matterouting 'you're aswanother—unbLabourd.

The Economist

One would be very hard-pressed to find a serious professional historian--I mean a serious historian, not a think-tank wanker, not an economist, not a journalist--who believes that the New Deal prolonged the DepressionImagine this sentence recast The argument that King Henry VIII died of syphillis is likewise a canard.

The Economist

One would be very hard-pressed to find a serious professional historian--I mean a serious historican, not a public health wanker, not a doctor, not a journalist--who believes that syphillis killed the king.Surely, if you were a historian looking to diagnose a problem, the first person you would go to would be a specialist in those sorts of problems.

The Economist

A copy of the magazine might feature Amber Solitaire from Horse's Neck, Idaho 34D-25-38 34D-25-38 34D-25-38markable nipples, but that displayingn ther the chap remarkable was a wanipples

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the word "wanker" sparingly and only in contexts where its offensive nature is appropriate and understood. It's best suited for informal settings or when quoting someone else.

Common error

Avoid using the term "wanker" in formal writing, professional communication, or any situation where maintaining a respectful tone is essential. Its vulgarity can damage your credibility and offend your audience.

Linguistic Context

Function: As a noun, "wanker" functions primarily as a derogatory label. It is used to express contempt, disapproval, or mockery towards a person. Ludwig AI shows the usage in contexts ranging from sports commentary to personal opinions, always carrying a negative connotation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "wanker" is a highly offensive British slang term used to describe a contemptible or foolish person. As Ludwig AI points out, it is generally inappropriate for formal settings and carries a strong negative connotation. While the word is quite common in certain informal contexts, primarily in News & Media as shown by Ludwig, its use requires extreme caution due to its vulgarity. Alternatives such as "idiot", "jerk", or "tosser" may be more suitable depending on the situation and audience. Ultimately, responsible and respectful communication should always be prioritized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Tosser

A British slang term, similar in meaning and offensiveness, but slightly less harsh.

Knobhead

A derogatory British slang term, similar in offensiveness, but less common.

Asshole

A more vulgar term for someone considered unpleasant or contemptible, similar level of intensity.

Arsehole

Vulgar British slang for an unpleasant or contemptible person, similar to "asshole".

Douchebag

An American slang term for an obnoxious or contemptible person, similar level of intensity.

Jerk

An American slang term for an obnoxious or contemptible person, similar in intensity.

Prat

British slang for a foolish or inept person, less offensive.

Idiot

A more general term for a stupid or foolish person, lacking the aggressive tone.

Git

A mild British insult for a stupid or unpleasant person.

Fool

A milder, more traditional term for someone lacking good sense.

FAQs

What does the word "wanker" mean?

The word "wanker" is a derogatory British slang term for a contemptible or foolish person. It originates from the act of masturbation but is now primarily used as a general insult.

When is it appropriate to use the word "wanker"?

The word "wanker" is generally inappropriate for formal settings. It is best reserved for informal conversations with close friends who understand the context and are not likely to be offended. Consider using a milder term like "idiot" or "jerk" in less casual situations.

What are some alternatives to calling someone a "wanker"?

Depending on the desired level of intensity, you can use alternatives such as "tosser", "idiot", "jerk", or "fool". Choose the word that best fits the situation and your intended message.

Is "wanker" considered offensive?

Yes, "wanker" is considered a highly offensive term in most contexts. Its use can be perceived as aggressive and disrespectful, and it should be avoided in formal or polite conversation.