Word: curmudgeon (noun)

Associations

A curmudgeon is a person, usually an older one, who is often bad-tempered, grumpy, or difficult to please.

• Example 1: "My grandfather is a curmudgeon who complains about everything." This means he is often grumpy.
• Example 2: "The curmudgeon next door never smiles or says hello." This shows a person who is unfriendly or unpleasant.
• Example 3: "Even though he is a curmudgeon, he has a kind heart." This shows that sometimes a grumpy person can still be good inside.

Synonym: grump or grouch. The difference is "curmudgeon" often suggests an older person and can sound a bit humorous or affectionate, while "grump" or "grouch" are more general and can be used for anyone who is bad-tempered.

Substitution

You can replace "curmudgeon" with:

• grumpy person (more casual)
• grouch (informal)
• crank (old-fashioned, similar meaning) Using "grumpy person" makes it simpler, while "curmudgeon" sounds a bit more formal or literary.

Deconstruction

"Curmudgeon" does not break into smaller common English parts easily. It comes from old French or Middle English, meaning a bad-tempered or miserly person. The exact origin is unclear, but it has been used since the 16th century to describe a grumpy old man.

Inquiry

• Can you think of someone you know who might be called a curmudgeon? Why?
• How would you describe a curmudgeon in a story or movie?
• Do you think being a curmudgeon is always negative, or can it sometimes be funny or endearing? Why?