What does “Stick-in-the-mud” mean?
"Stick-in-the-mud" means a person who is resistant to change or new ideas.
What context can I use the in?
Example
My boss is such a stick-in-the-mud, he never wants to try anything new.
Example
I invited my friend to go skydiving, but she's such a stick-in-the-mud that she declined.
Example
The company's stick-in-the-mud attitude is preventing them from adapting to the modern market
Is “Stick-in-the-mud” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Stick-in-the-mud” 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 “Stick-in-the-mud” effectively in context?
You can use "Stick-in-the-mud" to describe someone who is resistant to change or new ideas. It emphasizes a person's unwillingness to try something different or adapt to new situations. For example, if a friend always refuses to go out and try new restaurants, you might say, 'He's such a stick-in-the-mud when it comes to trying new foods.'
- 1Social
My friend is such a stick-in-the-mud, she never wants to go to parties or try new activities.
- 2Work
My boss is such a stick-in-the-mud, he never wants to implement new technologies or strategies.
- 3Business
The company's stick-in-the-mud attitude is preventing them from embracing digital marketing and reaching new customers.
Similar phrases to “Stick-in-the-mud”:
Old-fashioned
Having ideas or beliefs that are considered outdated or no longer relevant
Example
He's so old-fashioned, he still uses a typewriter instead of a computer.
A person who is opposed to or resistant to new technology
Example
My grandfather is a Luddite, he refuses to use a smartphone.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Stick-in-the-mud” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Stick-in-the-mud" is unknown.
Is “Stick-in-the-mud” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Stick-in-the-mud" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe individuals or organizations that are resistant to change or new ideas.
What tone does “Stick-in-the-mud” have?
"Stick-in-the-mud" conveys a tone of frustration or disappointment. It's often used to express annoyance towards someone's unwillingness to try something different or adapt to new situations.
Can “Stick-in-the-mud” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Stick-in-the-mud" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a specific type of behavior. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional discussions.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's such a stick-in-the-mud when it comes to trying new things.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't be such a "stick-in-the-mud"!' to encourage someone to be more open-minded.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- inflexible
- unadventurous
- conservative
- traditionalist
- narrow-minded
Antonyms
- adaptable
- progressive
- innovative
- flexible
- open-minded
