What Does Bitch Really Mean?

colloquial
It is important that we learn colloquial or slang words and how they are used by native speakers. This will help us understand conversations better and speak more naturally ourselves!

bitch
A good example is the word bitch. If you look in a dictionary, the definition -- a female dog -- might surprise you. It's the formal meaning, but it's not how we typically use the word.

prostitute
Now, you might think that you already know the informal definition. Perhaps in your language, bitch means prostitute. However, this is not how we use it in English.

malicious
When we call a woman a bitch it means we think she is unpleasant, malicious, or overbearing. For example: "My boss is such a bitch, she's always telling people that she's right and they're wrong."

subordinate
A man can be a bitch as well. However, in this case, he is subordinate, physically weak and vulnerable... often dominated by someone senior.

infuriates
Did you know we use the b-word with objects too? This laptop is such a bitch to use. It infuriates me when my computer goes so slowly and crashes all the time!

damaging
You know... life can be a bitch, really difficult. But if you're always bitching about something it can be damaging to your health. Why not stop complaining and smile!

the b-word
So the next time you hear the b-word, pay attention to the context. Is it referring to a dog, an unpleasant lady, an inferior man, maybe something annoying, or someone who complains all the time?