Re: Fox (attractive woman)

Scenario: (About the American cartoon- The Simpsons)

Homer commented on the wife of his neighbour's by saying, "She is such a fox."

Question:

I learned it refers to a sexually attractive woman in the American English.

Quote:

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Fox n. [C] US informal

a sexually attractive woman

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Source: Cambridge Dictionary


In Chinese slang, we have the exact word-fox which refers to a charming woman but it contains derogatory sense. It is a no-no to say "you are a fox" in Chinese to a woman.

I wonder whether "fox" is positive or negative in the English language. Can I say "you're a fox" in English to a woman? Thanks!

It does not have a negative sense, other than the fact that you are evaluating a woman on the basis of her looks alone. You shouldn't really say it to any woman as a way to make conversation.

However, if you know the person well, and she's saying how unattractive she feels these days and you said something like "Mary! What are you talking about! You're a total fox! It takes me three hours in front of the mirror to look as good as you do roling out of bed!" it would be an appropriate compliment.

Hi Barb_D,

Thank you for your help. :-D