Pincé (en. Pinched)

[pɛ̃se]

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
adjective
Describes a state of tension or oppression.
She has a pinched expression when she is stressed.
Elle a une expression pincée quand elle est stressée.
Refers to a person who is on the defensive or has difficulty expressing themselves.
During the meeting, he had a pinched look.
Lors de la réunion, il avait un air pincé.

Etymology

From the verb 'pincer', which means 'to pinch lightly'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to have a pinched look
to have an expression of dissatisfaction or reservation.
avoir l'air pincé
to feel pinched
to feel uncomfortable or under pressure.
se sentir pincé
to take something in a pinched manner
to be critical or not to appreciate something.
prendre quelque chose de pincé

Related Words

pinch
Action of squeezing or compressing something.
pincer
pin
Instrument used to grasp or hold objects.
pince
tweezers
Small tool for handling delicate objects.
pincette

Slang Meanings

To be on the defensive.
When he heard the criticism, he immediately became pinched.
Quand il a entendu la critique, il est devenu tout de suite pincé.
To have a tense look.
The way she responded was very pinched.
La façon dont elle a répondu était très pincée.