Sophomoric

Adjective

Definition: Showing immaturity or lack of judgment, typically associated with second-year students.

Definition: Relating to or resembling the stereotypical behavior or attitudes of a sophomore in college.

Synonyms: Juvenile, Immature, Puerile

Antonyms: Mature, Sophisticated

Examples:
  • His sophomoric pranks annoyed his classmates.
  • The sophomoric behavior of the students during the field trip was inappropriate.
Mnemonics:
  • "Sophomoric" sounds like "sophomore" which is often associated with immaturity in college students.
  • Think of the word "moronic" as a synonym for sophomoric, highlighting the lack of judgment and maturity.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "sophomoric" is derived from the combination of two terms: "sophomore," meaning a second-year student, and the suffix "-ic," denoting characteristics or qualities. It first appeared in the 1850s in the United States.

Historical Usage:

The term "sophomoric" initially referred specifically to the behavior resembling that of a sophomore in college. However, its usage has expanded to encompass any immature behavior or lack of judgment.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Sophomoric humor"

Explanation:

Refers to humor or jokes that are considered juvenile or lacking in wit and sophistication.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "sophomoric" with "sophisticated."

Explanation:

While these two words sound similar, "sophomoric" and "sophisticated" have opposite meanings. Sophomoric refers to immaturity, while sophisticated implies refinement and knowledge.

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