What does "cheeky" mean?
"Cheeky" describes someone slightly impertinent but in an endearing way. Here's how British English uses this word and when it's a compliment.
What it means
Slightly disrespectful or forward, but in a way that's playful rather than genuinely offensive. Cheekiness is audacity with charm.
"He asked the boss for a pay rise on his first day - cheeky."
"That's a bit cheeky, isn't it?" (said with a smile)
The tone
The key is that "cheeky" usually carries affection. Calling someone cheeky is often a compliment - you admire their nerve. It's very different from calling someone rude or disrespectful.
"A cheeky [noun]"
A "cheeky pint," "cheeky Nando's," "cheeky nap" - informal British usage where "cheeky" means slightly indulgent or unplanned. "Shall we have a cheeky pint?" = let's be slightly naughty and have a drink.
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Informal British English. Very common and affectionate.
What does "cheeky" mean?
Slightly disrespectful or forward, but in a way that's playful rather than genuinely offensive. Cheekiness is audacity with charm.
"He asked the boss for a pay rise on his first day - cheeky."
"That's a bit cheeky, isn't it?" (said with a smile)
Is "cheeky" formal or informal?
Informal British English. Very common and affectionate.
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