wankers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wankers" is correct and usable in written English, though it is considered vulgar and offensive.
It can be used informally to insult or criticize someone, often implying that they are foolish or contemptible. Example: "I can't believe those wankers cut in line without even asking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's been in DIY bands since the early 90s, is missing teeth as well as most of his hair, and is wearing a T-shirt that says Dinosaurs Are Wankers.

The Guardian - Music

Metaphorically, the band didn't even fly first class, but that didn't stop armchair critics from complaining that Pomplamoose didn't deserve to get on the plane to begin with, those plane-taking wankers.

The Guardian - Opinion

They were cheeky, funny and likable – a gang of what the French call "branleurs", which is literally translated as "wankers" but really means young guys who mess about.

The Guardian - Film

"Wankers!" yelled one van driver at the crowd.

The Economist

"It's them wankers next door," she says.

Independent

To be blunt: these wankers are turning you into a wanker too.

Independent

And "I am not up for being part of some Punch and Judy show to amuse a few wankers".

Independent

"Neither I nor my government consider the people of Scotland 'bloody wankers.' ".

The New Yorker

"Even the forty-five percent of you who are wankers".

The New Yorker

They're just wankers.

Independent

That's a lot of busy wankers.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using milder alternatives like "idiots" or "jerks" in more formal or sensitive situations.

Common error

Don't assume everyone will understand or tolerate the use of "wankers", even in informal settings. Its vulgarity can be alienating or offensive.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "wankers" is as a plural noun, typically used to refer to people deemed contemptible or foolish. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, though it notes its vulgarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "wankers" functions as a plural noun used to express strong contempt or disapproval. While grammatically correct, it is considered highly vulgar and offensive, limiting its appropriateness to informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms this assessment, noting its common usage in News & Media sources. For more formal or sensitive situations, milder alternatives like "idiots" or "jerks" are recommended. Always consider your audience and the potential impact of using such an offensive term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assholes

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

idiots

A more general and less offensive term for foolish or stupid people.

jerks

Suggests someone is behaving in an inconsiderate or annoying way.

fools

Implies a lack of wisdom or good judgment.

prats

A British term for foolish or incompetent people.

twits

A mild term for someone considered silly or foolish.

berks

A British slang term for a foolish or contemptible person.

losers

Suggests someone is unsuccessful or pathetic.

scum

A strong term for people considered worthless or contemptible.

good-for-nothings

Describes someone who is lazy and unproductive.

FAQs

How offensive is the word "wankers"?

The term "wankers" is considered highly offensive and vulgar in most contexts. It's best to avoid it in formal settings or when addressing unfamiliar audiences.

What are some less offensive alternatives to "wankers"?

You can use alternatives like "idiots", "fools", or "jerks" depending on the context.

Is "wankers" appropriate in writing?

The appropriateness of "wankers" in writing depends on the audience and the publication's tone. It's generally unsuitable for formal or professional writing.

What does the French term "branleurs" mean in relation to "wankers"?

According to The Guardian, the French term "branleurs" is literally translated as "wankers" but really means young guys who mess about.