What does “No spring chicken” mean?
"No spring chicken" means someone who is not young anymore.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I may not be a spring chicken, but I can still keep up with the young ones.
Example
He's definitely no spring chicken, but he can still run a marathon.
Example
She may be no spring chicken, but she's still full of energy and enthusiasm
Is “No spring chicken” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“No spring chicken” 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 “No spring chicken” effectively in context?
You can use "No spring chicken" to describe someone who is not young anymore. It is often used humorously or affectionately to acknowledge someone's age while emphasizing that they still have energy or abilities. For example, if a friend is surprised by your agility despite your age, you might say, 'I may not be a spring chicken, but I can still keep up with the young ones.'
- 1Physical Fitness
He's definitely no spring chicken, but he can still run a marathon.
- 2Enthusiasm
She may be no spring chicken, but she's still full of energy and enthusiasm.
- 3Comparisons
I may not be a spring chicken, but I can still keep up with the young ones.
Similar phrases to “No spring chicken”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “No spring chicken” come from?
The origin of the phrase "No spring chicken" is unknown.
Is “No spring chicken” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "No spring chicken" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used in a lighthearted manner to acknowledge someone's age while highlighting their vitality or capabilities.
What tone does “No spring chicken” have?
"No spring chicken" conveys a tone of humor and affection. It is usually used in a playful or teasing manner to acknowledge someone's age while emphasizing their continued energy or abilities.
Can “No spring chicken” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "No spring chicken" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used among friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or professional conversations.
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, 'He may not be a spring chicken, but he can still run a marathon.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm "no spring chicken"!' to imply that one is aware of their age.
