ENGLISH
REFERENCE

goddamn

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˈɡɑdˌdæm// UK //ɡˈɒdæm// god·damn Informal Vulgar

adj. used to show that you are very angry or annoyed about something. It makes your statement much stronger, but it can be rude to some people.

adj. used as an intensive to express strong annoyance, frustration, or emphasis. Attributive in use; it precedes the noun it modifies and carries a vulgar or profane register.


SIMPLE

I can't find my goddamn keys anywhere.

CONTEXTUAL

He spent the whole afternoon trying to fix that goddamn lawnmower before finally giving up in frustration.

COMPLEX

The protagonist's internal monologue is peppered with goddamn adjectives, reflecting a deep-seated resentment toward the bureaucratic hurdles preventing his return home.

Synonyms
Origin

From God + damn; originally, and sometimes still, a present subjunctive expression of a wish that God smite someone for their wickedness; compare also antonymous God bless, God bless you, and God love (someone or something).

Usage

The adjective is strictly attributive, meaning it must stand before a noun; it cannot be used after a linking verb like 'to be'.

Pitfall

The situation is goddamn.The situation is goddamn awful.This word functions as an intensive adjective or adverb; it cannot stand alone as a predicative adjective after a verb.

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