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Pencil-neck

What Does "Pencil-neck" Mean?

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"Pencil-neck" is an English idiom. It is a derogatory term used to describe someone, often implying physical weakness, lack of athleticism, or excessive intellectualism.

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "pencil-neck" used in a sentence:
  • He called him a pencil-neck geek because he spent more time studying than working out.
  • Don't underestimate him just because he's a bit of a pencil-neck; he's a brilliant programmer.
  • The jocks in school often teased the pencil-necks in the chess club.
meaning for pencil-neck

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Pencil-neck" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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