stupid

Everyday

1. Stupid means not clever or not sensible: a stupid mistake. tree →
2. Stupid describes something silly or annoying: this stupid zip won't work. tree →

In the lessons

At school and home, «stupid» is a rude word when said about a person, and many children are taught not to call anyone stupid because it hurts feelings; teachers prefer «silly», «careless» or «not a good idea». In safety talks, «doing something stupid» means taking a dangerous risk, like a dare. In stories, it shows anger or frustration. Phrases: a stupid mistake, don't be stupid, a stupid idea, stupid question.

Examples

• It was a stupid mistake to leave the gate open. tree →
• Calling someone stupid is unkind. tree →
• This stupid printer is jammed again! tree →
• Climbing on the roof for a dare is stupid and dangerous. tree →
• There is no such thing as a stupid question. tree →
• I felt stupid when I forgot my lines. tree →
• He did a stupid thing, but he said sorry. tree →
• Don't stand there, looking so stupid." tree →

Note

Comparatives: «more stupid» or «stupider». Rude when used about people: say «that was a silly idea» rather than «you are stupid». Making a mistake does not make someone stupid. Noun: stupidity.

In Jewish tradition

In Proverbs and the Prophets, stupid means lacking wisdom, often from not caring about God or instruction.

Interpretation. The wisdom writers treat stupidity as a moral failing, not just a lack of learning. The fool refuses to learn.

Note

Comparatives: «more stupid» or «stupider». Rude when used about people: say «that was a silly idea» rather than «you are stupid». Making a mistake does not make someone stupid. Noun: stupidity.