What does “Nervous Nellie” mean?
"Nervous Nellie" means someone who is easily frightened or anxious.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She's such a Nervous Nellie, she jumps at every little noise.
Example
I don't know why he's always such a Nervous Nellie before exams.
Example
The Nervous Nellie couldn't handle the haunted house attraction
Is “Nervous Nellie” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Nervous Nellie” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Nervous Nellie” effectively in context?
You can use "Nervous Nellie" to describe someone who is easily frightened or anxious. It is often used in a lighthearted or teasing manner. For example, if a friend is jumpy and nervous about a scary movie, you might say, 'Don't be such a Nervous Nellie, it's just a movie!'
- 1Social Gatherings
She's such a Nervous Nellie, she jumps at every little noise.
- 2Academic Stress
I don't know why he's always such a Nervous Nellie before exams.
- 3Fear of the Unknown
The Nervous Nellie couldn't handle the haunted house attraction.
Similar phrases to “Nervous Nellie”:
Someone who constantly worries or is anxious
Example
He's such a worrywart, always stressing about the smallest things.
Someone who is easily scared or lacks courage
Example
Don't be such a chicken, it's just a harmless spider.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Nervous Nellie” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Nervous Nellie" is unknown.
Is “Nervous Nellie” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Nervous Nellie" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to playfully tease someone who is easily frightened or anxious.
What tone does “Nervous Nellie” have?
"Nervous Nellie" conveys a lighthearted and teasing tone. It is not meant to be offensive or derogatory, but rather to gently poke fun at someone's nervousness.
Can “Nervous Nellie” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Nervous Nellie" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a light-hearted expression that is commonly used among friends and colleagues. However, it may be more appropriate to use in informal conversations rather than formal or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She's such a Nervous Nellie, she gets scared easily.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't be such a "Nervous Nellie"!' to playfully tease someone.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- anxious annie
- worrying wendy
- frightened freddy
- nervous nancy
- timid tom
Antonyms
- cool as a cucumber
- unflappable
- fearless frank
- calm and collected
- braveheart
