whim
word
/ˈhwɪm/
/wˈɪm/
Definition
A sudden or unusual idea, wish, or action that comes to your mind without much reason or planning.
Usage & Nuances
'Whim' is somewhat formal or literary, often used in phrases like 'on a whim' (meaning impulsively). It implies suddenness and lack of serious intent; not used for important plans or deeply considered decisions. Common confusion: Don't mix with 'wish' (more serious) or 'habit' (repeated action).
Spanish: capricho - antojoPortuguese (BR): capricho - vontade repentinaPortuguese (PT): capricho - desejo súbitoChinese (Simplified): 心血来潮 - 一时的想法Chinese (Traditional): 心血來潮 - 一時的想法Hindi: मौज - झुकाव (क्षणिक)Arabic: نزوة - هوى مفاجئBengali: হঠাৎ খেয়াল - আকস্মিক ইচ্ছাRussian: прихоть - капризJapanese: 気まぐれ - 気ままな思いつきVietnamese: ý thích - ý muốn bất chợtKorean: 즉흥적인 생각 - 변덕Turkish: kapris - anlık istekUrdu: اچانک خواہش - نازک مزاجیIndonesian: keinginan tiba-tiba - kehendak sesaat
Example Sentences
She bought a new hat on a whim.
basic
He traveled to Paris on a whim.
basic
A whim can lead to surprising adventures.
basic
It was just a whim, but we ended up adopting a puppy.
natural
He changes his plans at the whim of the moment.
natural
Don't spend all your money chasing every whim.
natural