If you play multiplayer video games online using a head set, there’s a good chance you’ve heard the phrase “don’t be a pussy”. But, if you don’t know what that means, or how the phrase came about, then this is the article for you.
We will cover what the phrase means and how it originated. We’ll also do a quick run through of usage of the phrase before going on to discuss similar and synonymous sayings. Let’s go.
What does the phrase “don’t be a pussy” mean?
Simply put, the phrase “don’t be a pussy” just means “don’t be a coward”. It is a common reaction from someone who wants you to do something that you are shying away from doing.
What’s the origin story of the phrase “don’t be a pussy”?
The word “pussy” has multiple meanings in slang, including as euphemism, and as vulgarity. It’s most commonly used as a noun with the meaning “cat”, or “coward” or “weakling”. In slang, it can also mean “vagina”, or by proxy, “sexual intercourse with a woman”.
The Collins Dictionary discusses the word pussy being used in a derogatory sense to mean cowardly or weak. Its precise definition is “an ineffectual or timid person”. Thus it can be used to refer to a male who is insufficiently masculine.
Typical usage of the phrase “don’t be a pussy”
The phrase “don’t be a pussy” should be used with caution in case it is interpreted incorrectly, since the word “pussy” can be used to refer to vaginas.
The phrase “don’t be a pussy” should be used when communicating with a male who is thinking of acting cowardly. You can also use the phrase “bro/dude, stop acting like a pussy” when a male is whinging about something he’s being asked to do, and having a negative attitude toward the action.
For example, on a multiplayer online video game, one player might want to carry out a mission as part of a team, and at least one other player might be reluctant because they deem it too difficult or frustrating. The first player might say to the other “Come on, don’t be a pussy, let’s do this.” To which there is no right or wrong answer.
Similar and synonymous phrases to “don’t be a pussy”
There are many alternative words and phrases that can often be used synonymously in place of “don’t be a pussy”. Here are some examples you might consider using:
- Don’t be a coward
- Don’t be a wimp
- Don’t be a sissy
- Be a man
- Man up
- Grow a pair (of balls)
- Don’t be a pushover
- Don’t be a chicken
- Don’t be a nervous Nelly
Final word
So to sum up, the phrase “don’t be a pussy” means “don’t be a coward/wimp”. Here, the word pussy is used in a derogatory sense to mean cowardly or weak, by comparing the man spoken to with a female, or someone who is more effeminate.
