idiots

word · lemma: idiot

/ˈɪˌdiəts/
ID-ee-uhts
/ˈɪdɪəts/
ID-ee-uhts

Definition

People who are very stupid, foolish, or who do something unreasonable. It is usually an insulting word, though friends may sometimes use it jokingly.

Usage & Nuances

Strong and rude in many contexts, so be careful using it about real people. Common patterns include 'an idiot', 'you idiot', and 'only idiots would...'. Don't use it in formal writing. Historically it was also a medical label, but that use is now outdated and offensive.

Example Sentences

Those idiots broke the window with a ball.

basic

I don't want to work with idiots.

basic

Only idiots would do that.

basic

We looked like complete idiots trying to open the door the wrong way.

natural

Ignore them—they're just being idiots.

natural

We were such idiots back in high school.

natural