Many unpleasant characteristics in the heat of the discussion involuntarily break down the opponent. And the awkward moment comes when you have to decide: was there a malicious insult or a subconscious appeal to the lexicon in search of the most suitable term? The sonorous and capacious definition of “misery” is one of the words that can be interpreted differently in different circles. In some cases, it will go unnoticed, in others it will cause serious conflict.
How did the concept come about?
The answer is on the surface, just digging a little in the dictionaries. Linguists trace a direct connection with the verb "huddle" in the meanings:
- limit yourself to expenses;
- save.
A single initial Proto-Slavic root zeti can be found in the open spaces of Eastern Europe in various variations. And they all indicate a tightly compressed substance, the fundamental principle:
- matter in philosophy;
- lump of earth, snow, etc.
Hints of the exact meaning of the word “press” give kindred definitions from the Greek “abound, take”, the Norwegian “crush”, as well as the Lithuanian “knot”. Invariably implies a deliberate restriction of something in space or money-grubbing, accumulation and composition of wealth.
How is it used by contemporaries?
Even the children of the beginning of the 21st century knew perfectly well that huddling is bad! This behavior is inherent in greedy people who do not want to share with others sweets, to play with a computer or with a model car. Hence the negative perception of the studied concept, which splits into meanings:
It is impossible to hear the word in small talk, because it has a colloquial nature with a touch of neglect. The speaker seems to be trying to belittle the interlocutor's merit, bringing to the fore the unwillingness to share something. The usual statement of fact, attempts to hurt or insult is possible.
So is it appropriate to speak?
Be very careful in the wording. If a person earns a lot and does not need money, but in a cafe he never pays for his comrades, saves on trifles, this is a classic misfortune. However, to declare this in person is a violation of all conceivable standards of etiquette. It is indecent to count other people's money, as well as trying to send them to your needs against the will of the wallet owner.
The epithet will be appropriate in a private conversation as an appraisal judgment of a third party, as well as in a humorous manner, if you want to fake a friend. In other situations, try to remain silent if you do not want to develop a conflict or retaliate against excessive wastefulness and squandering.