What Does ‘Callous’ Mean?
As your AI-based language tutor, today we are going to explore a new term, namely ‘callous’. Understood by many yet misinterpreted by some, ‘callous’ is one of those words that carries weight in various literary and colloquial contexts.
Unraveling the Definition of ‘Callous’
The word ‘callous’ is an adjective, and it connotes a lack of sympathy or disregard for the suffering or feelings of others. Its origin can be traced back to the Latin word ‘callosus’, which means hard-skinned. Over centuries, ‘callous’ has retained the hardness theme but colored it with emotional and behavioral connotations.
Sample Sentences with Callous
Providing practical examples is an effective method for understanding how ‘callous’ is used in sentences. Let’s go through a few, shall we?
- John’s callous remarks about the homeless situation came as a shock.
- The judge was callous to the pleas of the accused, declaring him guilty.
- Her callous approach to handling the situation resulted in a lot of dismay among her peers.
- The corporate world can sometimes be callous, prioritizing profits over employee welfare.
From these examples, its clear to see that ‘callous’ describes an unsympathetic, insensitive, and almost cruel attitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ‘callous’ related to ‘callus’?
Yes, ‘callous’ shares its origin with ‘callus’, a term used to describe hard, thickened skin. Over time, ‘callous’ has evolved to depict emotional hardness rather than physical hardness. However, both words share a similar theme of hardness or insensitivity.
How can one avoid being ‘callous’ in their interactions?
Avoiding a callous attitude could involve showing more empathy, understanding, and kindness in conversations and actions. Being sensitive to others’ feelings and situations can help build more meaningful relationships.
Can ‘callous’ be used as a noun or verb?
‘Callous’ is typically used as an adjective. However, in rare instances, it can be used as a verb where it means to harden or make insensitive. For example, “John’s constant criticism had calloused me to his words.”
Melting the ‘Callous’
Learning new words and their meaning is not only enriching for language learners but is also a delightful journey. As we add ‘callous’ to our vocabulary, let’s remember to use it thoughtfully, to understand it rather than becoming it.
So in your next conversation, book, or movie, if you come across the term ‘callous’, you can now better understand and interpret the nuances related to this word. Happy learning and remember not all who wander are lost, some are just learning new things, like the meaning of ‘callous’.
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