What does the idiom "call sb names" mean?

Although the meanings of the words in them do not make any sense when examined one by one, the word groups that are shaped according to the cultural roots of the language and that make sense as a whole are called idioms. call sb names meaning, in what situations is it used?

Meaning of "call sb names"

Meaning

To call someone names is an idiom that describes when someone is verbally insulting another person. This usually involves using derogatory language or terms, although it can also involve making unexpected and hurtful remarks about a person’s character, behaviour, or unique physical characteristics.

Etymology

The origin of this phrase is not entirely certain, but it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. The phrase may have come from the popular phrase "to name one's name," which meant to criticize or insult someone.

Usage

The phrase “to call someone names” is most commonly used to describe a person speaking in an unkind or hurtful way towards another. It can be used to describe a situation in which someone is using derogatory language, making fun of someone’s physical appearance, or making unexpected and hurtful remarks about a person’s character, behaviour, or unique physical characteristics. It can also be used to describe a situation in which someone is trying to belittle or demean another person.

Example Sentences

  • The bully in class was always calling the other students names.
  • My brother was always calling me names, so I stopped talking to him.
  • The student refused to accept her professor’s criticism and ended up calling him names.

The meanings of the words in the "call sb names" idiom

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.

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