Indian giver: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Indian giver” mean?

"Indian giver" means someone who gives a gift and then takes it back.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

He's such an Indian giver, he always asks for his gifts back.

He's such an Indian giver, he always asks for his gifts back.

Example

I can't believe she pulled an Indian giver and took back the present she gave me.

I can't believe she pulled an Indian giver and took back the present she gave me.

Example

I learned my lesson after being called an Indian giver for taking back a gift

I learned my lesson after being called an Indian giver for taking back a gift

Is “Indian giver” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Indian giver” 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 “Indian giver” effectively in context?

You can use "Indian giver" to describe someone who gives a gift and then takes it back. It is often used in a negative or derogatory way to criticize someone's behavior. For example, if someone gives you a present and then asks for it back, you might say, 'He's such an Indian giver, he always asks for his gifts back.'

• 1. Gift Giving

  I can't believe she pulled an Indian giver and took back the present she gave me.

  I can't believe she pulled an Indian giver and took back the present she gave me.

• 2. Regretful Actions

  I learned my lesson after being called an Indian giver for taking back a gift.

  I learned my lesson after being called an Indian giver for taking back a gift.

• 3. Negative Behavior

  He's such an Indian giver, he always asks for his gifts back.

  He's such an Indian giver, he always asks for his gifts back.

Similar phrases to “Indian giver”:

Take back a gift

To reclaim a gift that was previously given

Example

She took back the gift she had given him.

She took back the gift she had given him.

Regret giving

To feel remorse or regret for giving something

Example

He regretted giving her the expensive necklace.

He regretted giving her the expensive necklace.

Revoke a gift

To cancel or withdraw a gift that was previously given

Example

The company revoked the bonus they had given to their employees.

The company revoked the bonus they had given to their employees.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Indian giver” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Indian giver" is unknown.

Is “Indian giver” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Indian giver" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It is considered offensive and culturally insensitive, as it perpetuates stereotypes about Native Americans. It is important to be aware of the impact of using such phrases and to choose more respectful alternatives.

What tone does “Indian giver” have?

"Indian giver" conveys a negative and derogatory tone. It is used to criticize someone's behavior and implies selfishness or a lack of generosity.

Can “Indian giver” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Indian giver" is highly informal and should be avoided in formal settings. It is considered offensive and disrespectful. It is best to choose alternative expressions that are more inclusive and respectful.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

The phrase "Indian giver" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. It is not commonly used on its own.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• take back a gift
• regret giving
• revoke a gift
• withdraw a gift

Antonyms