C1adjectiveinformal1K

UK/["/dʌm/"]/US/["/dʌm/"]/

Meaning of Dumb

In simple words: Not smart or unable to think clearly.

Dumb in a sentence

  • He felt dumb after forgetting the answer to such a simple question.
  • Calling someone dumb is rude and can hurt their feelings.
  • The old computer was so dumb it couldn't even connect to the internet.
  • She made a dumb mistake by leaving her keys at home.
  • In the past, a dumb person referred to someone who could not speak.
  • The dumb waiter silently carried the dishes between floors.

How to use Dumb

Often used informally to describe someone as not intelligent. Be cautious; using 'dumb' in a derogatory way can be offensive. Consider using 'unintelligent' in formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'dumbbell' — it’s heavy but not smart!

Related words

Collocations with Dumb

Synonyms for Dumb

Opposites of Dumb

Common mistakes with Dumb

  • Using 'dumb' to describe someone who is mute (correct term is 'mute').
  • Confusing with 'deaf' (dumb doesn't mean unable to hear).
  • Using as a formal descriptor in professional settings.

Compare Dumb with Stupid, Foolish, Dim

Dumb appears in

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Frequently asked questions about Dumb

What does Dumb mean?

Not smart or unable to think clearly.

What is the definition of Dumb?

stupid

How do you use Dumb in a sentence?

He felt dumb after forgetting the answer to such a simple question.

Can you give another example of Dumb?

Calling someone dumb is rude and can hurt their feelings.

What are synonyms for Dumb?

Common alternatives include stupid, foolish, dim, simple-minded.

What is the opposite of Dumb?

Opposite meanings include smart, intelligent, clever.

What words go with Dumb?

It commonly pairs with be, feel, look, extremely, fairly, very, be, become, be struck, with, deaf and dumb, be, become, be struck, with, deaf and dumb.

What are common mistakes when using Dumb?

Using 'dumb' to describe someone who is mute (correct term is 'mute'). Confusing with 'deaf' (dumb doesn't mean unable to hear). Using as a formal descriptor in professional settings.

How do you pronounce Dumb?

US: /["/dʌm/"]/, UK: /["/dʌm/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Dumb formal or informal?

"Dumb" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Dumb?

Often used informally to describe someone as not intelligent. Be cautious; using 'dumb' in a derogatory way can be offensive. Consider using 'unintelligent' in formal contexts.

What CEFR level is Dumb?

"Dumb" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.