Meaning of "quidnunc" in English

A "quidnunc" is a term used to describe someone who is eager to know the latest news or gossip; essentially, a busybody or gossip. This person has an insatiable curiosity about other people's affairs and tends to be one of the first to circulate current happenings. Used since the early 18th century, the term encapsulates that almost nosy penchant for the latest scoops and tales, whether in social gatherings or more intimate settings. It's not a flattering term, often used pejoratively to highlight someone's involuntary tendency to poke into others' business.

Meaning of "quidnunc" in French

In French, the word "quidnunc" also refers to a busybody or someone who is excessively curious about other people's lives. While the term is directly borrowed from English, the concept translates culturally to someone who thrives on gossip and thrives on the news of the day. Such an individual is seen as being overly curious about the affairs of others. It holds a similar slightly negative connotation in French, implying an overly inquisitive nature that sometimes borders on intrusive.

Pronunciation of "quidnunc" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈkwɪdˌnʌŋk/

Pronunciation Variations: In English, the pronunciation remains largely consistent across different regions with minor variations, primarily with how crisply the "c" is pronounced at the end, sometimes softer or more abrupt depending on the speaker's accent.

Pronunciation of "quidnunc" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ˌkwidˈnɔŋk/

Pronunciation Variations: In French, the pronunciation may vary slightly, typically influenced by the speaker's native accent. The emphasis can vary with the 'u' sound occasionally being more pronounced among speakers who are especially mindful of enunciation.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The newsroom was filled with quidnuncs eager to get the latest scoop. (La salle de rédaction était remplie de quidnuncs impatients d'obtenir les dernières nouvelles.)
  2. Mr. Jones is such a quidnunc; he knows everyone's business. (M. Jones est un tel quidnunc; il connaît les affaires de tout le monde.)
  3. I try to steer clear of quidnuncs who like to pry into personal affairs. (J'essaie d'éviter les quidnuncs qui aiment se mêler des affaires personnelles.)
  4. The quidnunc at the office always has the latest rumors. (Le quidnunc au bureau a toujours les dernières rumeurs.)
  5. Gossip magazines are written for true quidnuncs. (Les magazines de potins sont écrits pour de vrais quidnuncs.)
  6. Her reputation as a quidnunc precedes her at every social gathering. (Sa réputation de quidnunc la précède à chaque rassemblement social.)
  7. Avoid sharing secrets with quidnuncs who can't keep them. (Évitez de partager des secrets avec des quidnuncs qui ne peuvent pas les garder.)
  8. The fair was full of quidnuncs, all ears for the day's news. (La foire était pleine de quidnuncs, avides des nouvelles du jour.)
  9. As a quidnunc, she was thrilled to report the neighborhood stories. (En tant que quidnunc, elle était ravie de raconter les histoires du quartier.)
  10. The novel's main character is a notorious quidnunc, causing endless drama. (Le personnage principal du roman est un quidnunc notoire, causant un drame sans fin.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "quidnunc" in English

Synonyms: gossip, busybody, snoop, busybody, nosy parker, tattletale, informer, eavesdropper, meddler, newsmonger.

Antonyms: recluse, introvert, private person, hermit, loner, solitary, withdrawn, reserved, unsocial.

Similar Words: inquisitor, snitch, waggoner, chatterbox, tale-bearer, prattler, tale-teller, morale officer, nag.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "quidnunc" in French

Synonyms: commère, fouineur, curieux, bavard, rapporteur, indiscret, langue de vipère, cancanier, colporteur.

Antonyms: solitaire, introverti, ermite, réservé, secret.

Similar Words: espion, rumeur, mouchard, jacasseur, racontar, curieuse, investigateur, fouineuse.

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