Word
gall
Phoneticsgall
US/ˈɡɔɫ/
UK/ɡˈɔːl/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. a rude or bold way of acting that shows no respect for others. You use this when someone does something shocking or annoying without feeling embarrassed.
n. impudent or brazen behaviour; an insolent audacity. Often used to express indignation at someone's lack of shame or respect.
Examples
“He had the gall to ask for more money after being late.”
“After ignoring my emails for weeks, she had the gall to show up and ask for a favour.”
“The CEO had the gall to accept a massive bonus while simultaneously announcing the layoff of five hundred factory workers.”
Examples
simple
“He had the gall to ask for more money after being late.”
contextual
“After ignoring my emails for weeks, she had the gall to show up and ask for a favour.”
complex
“The CEO had the gall to accept a massive bonus while simultaneously announcing the layoff of five hundred factory workers.”
Usage
Commonly used in the construction 'to have the gall to [verb]'.
Real-World Examples
“Unlike men such as Owen, Shaftesbury or Atterbury, she preferred the honest ‘ Quintessence of Gall ’ over the flattering, soothing ‘ Extract of Honey ’.” “Lessons were learned, even if their galling relegation benefited the careers of Liam Delap and Omari Hutchinson, as the harsh reality of what happens when potential meets proven quality.” Idioms
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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