Meaning of "yokel" in English

A "yokel" refers to an unsophisticated person from a rural area, often portrayed as uneducated or lacking in social finesse. The term is sometimes used in a derogatory manner to describe someone perceived as simple or naive, highlighting a lack of urbanity. Though not always complimentary, "yokel" can also carry an endearing tone, suggesting a kind of wholesome simplicity associated with country living. This stereotype includes wearing plain clothing, speaking with a rural accent, and having a straightforward, uncomplicated outlook on life.

Meaning of "yokel" in French

In the French context, a "yokel" similarly denotes an individual from the countryside perceived as unsophisticated or lacking urban polish. It is often used pejoratively to describe someone seen as simple-minded or naive. The term reflects cultural stereotypes about rural residents who might be viewed as less cultured or worldly. While it primarily conveys a dismissive attitude, it can also imply a certain rustic charm or innocence, highlighting the traditional and straightforward lifestyle of rural communities.

Pronunciation of "yokel" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈjoʊkəl/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "yokel" may have slight regional variations, particularly in the vowel sounds, which can vary slightly between American and British English.

Pronunciation of "yokel" in French

Phonetic Transcription: Not typically used or recognized in French phonetic descriptions as "yokel" is an English term borrowed into French.

Pronunciation Variations: There are no specific regional variations in French as the word is commonly treated as a borrowing from English and retains its original pronunciation.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The city folk laughed at the yokel's simple attire. (Les citadins se moquaient de la tenue simple du campagnard.)
  2. She was surprised by the yokel's knowledge about farming techniques. (Elle était surprise par les connaissances du campagnard sur les techniques agricoles.)
  3. The yokel seemed out of place in the bustling city. (Le campagnard semblait hors de son élément dans la ville animée.)
  4. Despite his yokel appearance, he was very well-read. (Malgré son apparence de campagnard, il était très cultivé.)
  5. They underestimated the yokel's ability to fix the machinery. (Ils sous-estimaient la capacité du campagnard à réparer la machine.)
  6. The film portrayed the yokel as both innocent and wise. (Le film montrait le campagnard à la fois innocent et sage.)
  7. A group of yokels gathered at the market to sell their produce. (Un groupe de campagnards s'était réuni au marché pour vendre leurs produits.)
  8. The yokel's accent was thick and hard to understand for the tourists. (L'accent du campagnard était épais et difficile à comprendre pour les touristes.)
  9. The urban visitors called him a yokel, but he simply smiled. (Les visiteurs urbains l'appelaient campagnard, mais il souriait simplement.)
  10. His yokel charm won over the city girl. (Son charme de campagnard a conquis la fille de la ville.)

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

Synonyms: bumpkin, hillbilly, rustic, countryman, peasant, hayseed, rube, clodhopper, hick, backwoodsman.

Antonyms: sophisticate, cosmopolitan, urbanite, city dweller, intellectual, academic.

Similar Words: provincial, outlander, villager, outsider, folk, commoner.

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

Synonyms: paysan, rustre, campagnard, villageois, bouseux, péquenaud.

Antonyms: citadin, sophistiquer, urbain, mondain.

Similar Words: provincial, commun, patoisant.

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