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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


phlegmatic

adjective

Definition: 1. having a calm temperament; 2. not readily showing emotion

Synonyms: aloof, cold, apathetic, stony, stoic, nonchalant, composed, impersonal, calm, unemotional, passive, languid

Antonyms: animated, excited, emotional, passionate, spirited

Tips: Phlegmatic is derived from the Greek phlegmatikos, which means "having an abundance of phlegm." Phlegm is saliva mixed with respiratory discharge, and it was believed to cause a person to be sluggish and unemotional. Therefore, phlegmatic has come to mean unemotional.

Usage Examples:

Her bright hair color would shock even the most phlegmatic person. (composed, aloof)

Although secretly thrilled, he remained phlegmatic throughout the award ceremony. (stoic, calm)

She wished her boyfriend would be a little more open and animated, and a little less phlegmatic. (passive, impersonal)

She is the least phlegmatic person I know; she cries and laughs at the drop of a hat. (composed, stoic, unemotional)


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