thin-skinned: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘thin-skinned’ mean?
The idiom "thin-skinned" refers to a person who is easily offended or sensitive to criticism or insults.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "wear thin" means to gradually lose one's patience, endurance, or tolerance towards something or someone. It implies that the situation or person is becoming annoying, irritating, or tiresome over time.
The idiom "under the weather" is used to describe someone who is not feeling well or is sick.
The idiom "tread on someone's toes" means to offend or irritate someone by encroaching on their territory, interfering with their affairs, or acting in a way that they perceive as a violation. It implies crossing boundaries and causing resentment in the process.
The idiom "tread carefully" means to proceed cautiously or with great care and consideration, especially in a sensitive or delicate situation.
The idiom "tough tuchus" is an informal expression used to describe someone as strong-willed or resilient, often in the face of adversity or challenges. It implies that the person has a tough and determined nature.
The idiom "tough titty" is a vulgar and sarcastic expression used to dismiss someone's complaint or show a lack of sympathy towards their problem.
The idiom "toughen up" means to become emotionally or mentally stronger and more resilient, often by facing and enduring difficult or challenging situations.
The idiom "tough break" means experiencing a difficult or unfortunate situation, often through no fault of one's own.
Navigating Sensitivities
The idiom "thin-skinned" is a commonly used phrase in American English. It is derived from the metaphorical association between sensitivity and the vulnerability of having a thin layer of skin. The term "thin-skinned" is typically used to describe individuals who are easily offended or hurt by criticism or negative remarks.
One key aspect of this idiom is its figurative nature. It does not refer to an actual physical condition but rather describes a personality trait or emotional disposition. The phrase suggests that individuals who are "thin-skinned" possess a heightened sensitivity that renders them more susceptible to emotional distress in response to perceived slights or criticism.
In popular usage, "thin-skinned" is often used to suggest that an individual lacks resilience or the ability to handle adverse comments or situations. It implies that such individuals are overly sensitive and may react defensively or with a sense of wounded pride to even minor or unintentional criticism. This idiom is related to the idiom "thick skin", which is used to describe individuals who are able to handle criticism and negative remarks without being easily hurt or offended. While having "thick skin" implies a certain level of emotional resilience and the ability to shrug off criticism, being "thin-skinned" suggests the opposite, highlighting a heightened vulnerability to emotional distress.
Similarly, another related idiom is "glass chin", which is often used in the context of boxing. In boxing, a "glass chin" refers to a boxer's susceptibility to being knocked out by a punch to the chin. In a figurative sense, "glass chin" can be used to describe individuals who are extremely vulnerable or sensitive to criticism or negative remarks. Like someone with thin skin, individuals with a "glass chin" are easily hurt or offended by criticism and may react with defensiveness or wounded pride. While the idiom "thin-skinned" emphasizes the heightened sensitivity of individuals, "glass chin" draws on the imagery of vulnerability and susceptibility to suggest a similar level of emotional fragility. It is important to note, however, that the idiom "glass chin" is most commonly used in the context of boxing and may not be as widely recognized as "thin-skinned".
As with any idiom, it is important to consider the nuances and complexities of its usage. "Thin-skinned" is a valuable term for describing individuals who are easily offended or hurt by criticism, but it should not be used as a blanket label or an excuse to dismiss valid concerns. It is essential to approach the use of this idiom and related idioms with empathy and understanding, recognizing the unique emotional experiences of others and the importance of thoughtful communication. By being mindful of these idioms and their implications, we can foster more respectful and effective interpersonal relationships.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "thin-skinned" can be used in a sentence:
- She is very thin-skinned, often taking offense at the slightest criticism.
- His thin-skinned nature makes it difficult for him to handle constructive feedback.
- The politician's thin-skinned personality was often evident during public debates.
The idiom "thin-skinned" is typically used to describe someone who is sensitive or easily offended. It suggests that the person's emotional reaction to criticism or negative feedback is intense or disproportionate. The term "thin-skinned" implies that their emotional boundary is fragile and easily pierced, just like thin skin is more vulnerable to injury compared to thicker skin.
More "Sensitive" idioms
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