ass
What does ass mean? ass is a English moderate that translates to “ass / butt” in English.
Literal Translation
buttocks / donkey
Meaning & Usage
"ass / butt"
The American English term for buttocks, also used as a modifier to intensify adjectives ('bad-ass,' 'dumb-ass,' 'lazy-ass'). This suffix-like usage is uniquely American and endlessly productive. 'Ass' as an intensifier can attach to almost any adjective.
Examples in the Wild
'Get your ass over here.' 'That's a big-ass spider.' 'I'm tired of his lazy-ass excuses.'
Regional Variations
'Ass' means donkey; 'arse' is used for buttocks
When to Use It
Context
- Casual conversations with friends
- Informal settings where profanity is accepted
- Direct confrontation (use with caution)
Avoid
- Professional or formal settings
- Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations
Cultural Context
The '-ass' suffix construction (big-ass truck, long-ass day, cold-ass weather) is a defining feature of American informal English. Linguists have actually studied the syntax rules governing where 'ass' can be inserted — there are real patterns. 'Ass' alone is mild; compounds range from mild to strong depending on the complete word.
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