How Do You Spell CHINK?

Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈɪŋk] (IPA)

"Chink" is a word that has caused controversy due to its derogatory nature towards individuals of Asian descent. However, it also presents a spelling challenge due to its unique pronunciation. The word is pronounced with a voiceless palato-alveolar affricate sound followed by a nasal consonant at the end. In IPA phonetic transcription, this can be written as /tʃɪŋk/. While it is important to acknowledge the offensive nature of this word, it also highlights the complexities of English spelling and pronunciation.

CHINK Meaning and Definition

  1. Chink is a noun with multiple meanings and connotations. It is important to note that while some definitions may carry offensive or derogatory associations, this response focuses on providing a comprehensive and objective definition.

    1. A narrow opening or crack in a solid surface: Chink can refer to a small fissure or gap, typically in an object or structure, such as a chink in the armor or a chink in the wall.

    2. A derogatory slang term for people of Chinese origin: Please note that this usage is considered offensive and racially derogatory, often used as a racial slur. It is crucial to promote respect, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity when discussing or referring to people of any ethnicity.

    3. Informal term for money: In certain dialects or casual conversations, especially in British English, chink can be a colloquial term that refers to money, especially coins.

    It is important to emphasize that the second definition mentioned above is considered derogatory and inappropriate. The use of racially offensive terms is widely discouraged, as it perpetuates discrimination and harms others. Respectful and inclusive language is essential to fostering diversity and creating a harmonious society.

  2. • A small rent, cleft, or opening lengthwise; a crack or gap, as in a wall.
    • To crack; to make a small sharp sound with a piece of money or metal.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CHINK

Etymology of CHINK

The word "chink" has multiple etymological origins, and its meaning can vary depending on the context. Here are the two main origins associated with the word:

1. As a derogatory term for Asian individuals (slur):

The term "chink" emerged in the late 19th century in the United States as a derogatory term primarily used to target Chinese immigrants. It gained popularity during the Chinese Exclusion Act era (1882-1943) when anti-Chinese sentiment was prevalent. Historically, this term was used to dehumanize and discriminate against people of Chinese descent and has therefore been classified as a racial slur.

2. Other unrelated origins or meanings:

a. Chink as a noun: The word "chink" can also refer to a narrow opening or a cracking sound, unrelated to racial or ethnic connotations.

Idioms with the word CHINK

  • chink in one's armor The idiom "chink in one's armor" refers to a vulnerable or weak point in someone's character, defense, or capabilities. It implies that despite an individual's overall strength or competence, there is a specific area or aspect in which they are susceptible to being defeated, criticized, or taken advantage of. The term is often used metaphorically, drawing on the image of a knight with a flaw in their armor that could potentially be exploited by an opponent.
  • chink up (something) The idiom "chink up (something)" typically means to fortify or strengthen something, often by filling in gaps or weak points. It derives from the noun "chink," which refers to a narrow opening or crevice. Therefore, this idiom suggests closing up or blocking off vulnerabilities or weaknesses in a literal or figurative sense.
  • a chink in somebody's armour The idiom "a chink in somebody's armour" refers to a vulnerability or weakness in someone's defenses, usually describing a flaw or area of vulnerability in someone's character or argument. It suggests that even the most seemingly strong or invincible individuals can have a weak point that can be exploited or used against them.
  • a chink in sb's armour The idiom "a chink in sb's armour" refers to a vulnerability or weakness in someone's character or defenses. It originated from the literal meaning of a chink, which is a small crack or opening in armor that leaves a person susceptible to attack. In a figurative sense, it suggests that someone has a weak point or flaw that can be exploited by others.
  • chink in sb's armour The idiom "chink in someone's armor" refers to a vulnerability or weakness in someone's character, skills, or defenses. It implies that the person is typically strong or invincible, but there is a small gap or flaw in their otherwise flawless armor that can be exploited or used against them.
  • a chink in someone's armour The idiom "a chink in someone's armour" refers to a vulnerability or weakness in someone's defenses or character that can be exploited or used to gain an advantage over them. It suggests that even the strongest individuals may have a flaw or susceptible aspect that can be targeted or taken advantage of.
  • a chink in somebody’s armour The idiom "a chink in somebody's armour" refers to a weakness or vulnerability in someone's character or defenses. It implies that even the strongest or most confident individual has a flaw that can be exploited or used against them.
  • chink in armour The idiom "chink in armor" refers to a weakness or vulnerability in someone's defense or protection. It commonly suggests a small or unnoticed flaw that, if exploited, can lead to significant consequences or harm. The phrase is often used metaphorically to describe an area or aspect where someone or something is susceptible to attack or failure.

Similar spelling words for CHINK

Plural form of CHINK is CHINKS

Conjugate verb Chink

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have chinked
you would have chinked
he/she/it would have chinked
we would have chinked
they would have chinked
I would have chink
you would have chink
he/she/it would have chink
we would have chink
they would have chink

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been chinking
you would have been chinking
he/she/it would have been chinking
we would have been chinking
they would have been chinking

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would chink
you would chink
he/she/it would chink
we would chink
they would chink

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be chinking
you would be chinking
he/she/it would be chinking
we would be chinking
they would be chinking

FUTURE

I will chink
you will chink
he/she/it will chink
we will chink
they will chink

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be chinking
you will be chinking
he/she/it will be chinking
we will be chinking
they will be chinking

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have chinked
you will have chinked
he/she/it will have chinked
we will have chinked
they will have chinked

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been chinking
you will have been chinking
he/she/it will have been chinking
we will have been chinking
they will have been chinking

IMPERATIVE

you chink
we let´s chink

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to chink

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was chinking
you were chinking
he/she/it was chinking
we were chinking
they were chinking

PAST PARTICIPLE

chinked

PAST PERFECT

I had chinked
you had chinked
he/she/it had chinked
we had chinked
they had chinked

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been chinking
you had been chinking
he/she/it had been chinking
we had been chinking
they had been chinking

PRESENT

I chink
you chink
he/she/it chinks
we chink
they chink

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am chinking
you are chinking
he/she/it is chinking
we are chinking
they are chinking

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

chinking

PRESENT PERFECT

I have chinked
you have chinked
he/she/it has chinked
we have chinked
they have chinked

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been chinking
you have been chinking
he/she/it has been chinking
we have been chinking
they have been chinking

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it chink

SIMPLE PAST

I chinked
you chinked
he/she/it chinked
we chinked
they chinked

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