silly

[ˈsɪli]

silly Definition

  • 1having or showing a lack of common sense or judgement; absurd and foolish
  • 2amusing and entertaining, but of little value or importance

Using silly: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "silly" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    It was silly of me to forget my keys.

  • Example

    The movie was silly but fun to watch.

  • Example

    Don't be silly, it's not your fault.

  • Example

    She made a silly mistake in her calculations.

silly Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using silly

  • to contort one's face in a humorous or ridiculous manner

    Example

    The children loved to make silly faces at each other during class.

  • an amount of money that is considered excessive or unreasonable

    Example

    The company offered him silly money to work for them, but he turned it down.

  • an affectionate term used to describe someone who is being silly or foolish

    Example

    Oh, you silly sausage! You forgot your keys again.

Phrases with silly

  • a period, typically during the summer months, when the media often focuses on trivial or frivolous news stories

    Example

    During the silly season, newspapers often report on celebrity gossip and other trivial matters.

  • an affectionate term used to describe someone who is being silly or foolish

    Example

    Stop being a silly billy and come help me with this.

  • an affectionate term used to describe someone who is being silly or foolish

    Example

    You're such a silly goose sometimes!

Origins of silly

from Old English 'sǣlig', meaning 'blessed, happy'

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Summary: silly in Brief

The term 'silly' [ˈsɪli] refers to a lack of common sense or judgement, as well as something that is amusing but of little value. It can be used to describe actions, statements, or objects, as in 'She made a silly mistake in her calculations.' 'Silly' also appears in phrases like 'silly season,' which refers to a period of trivial news coverage, and idioms like 'make a silly face,' which means to contort one's face in a humorous way.

How do native speakers use this expression?