What does “White feather” mean?
"White feather" means to show cowardice or a lack of bravery.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He was branded with the white feather after refusing to fight in the war.
Example
She accused him of showing a white feather when he backed out of the challenge.
Example
The soldier felt ashamed when he received a white feather from his comrades
Is “White feather” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“White feather” 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 “White feather” effectively in context?
You can use "White Feather" to describe someone who is showing cowardice or a lack of bravery. It emphasizes the idea of being afraid to face a challenge or fulfill a responsibility. For example, if a friend refuses to confront a difficult situation, you might say, 'Don't show a white feather now. We need your support.'
- 1Courage
Despite the danger, she decided not to show a white feather and stood up for what she believed in.
- 2Challenges
He didn't want to show a white feather and backed out of the competition at the last minute.
- 3Responsibility
When he refused to take on the difficult task, his colleagues accused him of showing a white feather.
Similar phrases to “White feather”:
Lose one's nerve
To become afraid or lose courage in a challenging situation
Example
She lost her nerve and couldn't speak in front of the large audience.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “White feather” come from?
The origin of the phrase "White Feather" can be traced back to the early 20th century, specifically during World War I. During this time, a white feather was seen as a symbol of cowardice. It was often given to men who were perceived as not doing their duty by enlisting in the military. The white feather was meant to shame and humiliate those who received it.
Is “White feather” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "White Feather" is a well-known idiom, although it may not be used as frequently in everyday conversation as some other idioms. However, it is still recognized and understood by many English speakers.
What tone does “White feather” have?
"White Feather" conveys a tone of criticism or disappointment. It is often used to express disapproval towards someone who is not showing bravery or courage in a particular situation.
Can “White feather” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "White Feather" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations among friends, family, or colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal situations to convey a sense of disappointment or criticism.
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 didn't want to show a white feather and backed out of the competition at the last minute.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't show a white feather!' to imply the need for bravery.
