chutzpah
Say it: HOOT-spuh /ˈhʊtspə/ · noun
What “chutzpah” means
Cheeky nerve that can be shocking or impressive.
More precisely: Shameless audacity; cheeky nerve, sometimes admirable.
Example: “It took chutzpah to ask for a raise in her second week.”
When to use it
Use it for astonishing cheek or bold nerve, whether you admire it or disapprove. It sounds informal and expressive.
Similar words
nerve, audacity, cheek
Where it comes from
Yiddish, from Hebrew ḥuṣpāh, 'insolence, audacity'.
Quick check
A guest arrives empty-handed, then asks the host to pack leftovers for tomorrow's lunch. What does that take?
humility or chutzpah?
Show the answer
chutzpah
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