bluenose (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/bˈluːnəʊz/

Meaning and Usage

The term "bluenose" has two primary meanings in English.

1. Colloquial Term: It refers to a person who is considered overly puritanical or prudish, particularly concerning social behaviors or morals. This usage often suggests a person who is quick to express disapproval of behaviors considered indecent or immoral.

2. Regional Identifier: In Canadian context, "Bluenose" is also used to describe a person from Nova Scotia, particularly those of Acadian or Scots heritage. It may refer to pride in local customs and traditions.

Frequency of Use

"Bluenose" is relatively niche, with more frequent use in Canadian contexts, especially in literature or discussions about regional identities. It is less common in everyday oral speech and more often found in written contexts.

Example Sentences

1. Many people consider her a bluenose because she disapproves of any social drinking at parties.
   Многие считают её пуританкой, потому что она не одобряет никакого употребления алкоголя на вечеринках.

2. The locals affectionately referred to themselves as bluenoses, celebrating their unique Acadian heritage.
   Местные жители с любовью называли себя временщиками, отмечая своё уникальное акадийское наследие.

3. His bluenose attitude often alienated him from his more carefree friends.
   Его пуританский подход часто отталкивал его от более беззаботных друзей.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "bluenose" itself may not feature prominently in many idiomatic expressions, it is related to discussions around prudishness and conservative values. Below are sentences that contextualize the word within related idiomatic expressions.

1. "To be a bluenose about something": This means to exhibit a tendency to be overly critical or moralistic.

2. She can really be a bluenose about modern music; she thinks it lacks depth.
   Она действительно может быть пуританкой по поводу современной музыки; считает, что в ней нет глубины.

3. "Don't be such a bluenose!": A common phrase urging someone to lighten up or stop being so critical.

4. Come on, don’t be such a bluenose! Let’s have some fun at the party!
   Да брось, не будь такой пуританкой! Давай повеселимся на вечеринке!

5. "Bluenose mentality": Refers to a general attitude of being overly restrictively moralistic.

6. His bluenose mentality prevents him from seeing the fun side of life.
   Его пуританский менталитет мешает ему увидеть весёлую сторону жизни.

Etymology

The term "bluenose" derives from the color blue, which has connotations of sadness or melacholia in various cultural contexts, often symbolizing yoke preserved and sterniness. The word has been used since the late 19th century, primarily to denote a person from Nova Scotia, Canada, and subsequently took on the connotation of prudishness.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Prude - Puritan - Killjoy

Antonyms: - Libertine - Hedonist - Free spirit