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whim

[wɪm]

whim Definition

  • 1a sudden desire or change of mind, especially one that is unusual or unexplained
  • 2a fanciful or odd idea

Using whim: Examples

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

  • Example

    On a whim, she decided to quit her job and travel the world.

  • Example

    He bought the car on a whim without really thinking it through.

  • Example

    The decision was made on a whim and had no real basis in logic or reason.

whim Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for whim

Idioms Using whim

  • completely under the control or power of someone else

    Example

    The employees were at the whim of their boss, who could fire them at any time.

  • an unpredictable or unexpected event or outcome

    Example

    Their meeting was a mere whim of fate, but it changed their lives forever.

  • an unpredictable or uncontrollable natural occurrence

    Example

    The tornado was a whim of nature that destroyed everything in its path.

Phrases with whim

  • an unyielding or inflexible determination or willpower

    Example

    Despite his age, he still has a whim of iron and refuses to retire.

  • whim-wham

    a frivolous or fanciful object or trinket

    Example

    Her room was filled with all sorts of whims-whams and knick-knacks.

  • on a whim

    acting impulsively or without much thought

    Example

    She decided to dye her hair pink on a whim.

Origins of whim

from Old English 'hwim', meaning 'a whimper'

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Summary: whim in Brief

The term 'whim' [wɪm] refers to sudden, unusual, or unexplained desires or changes of mind. It can also denote fanciful or odd ideas, as in 'He had a whim to start a circus.' The phrase 'on a whim' implies acting impulsively, while idioms like 'at the whim of someone' suggest being completely under someone's control. 'Whim' extends into phrases like 'whim of fate,' denoting unpredictable events, and 'whim of nature,' referring to uncontrollable natural occurrences.

How do native speakers use this expression?