[Vocabulary] about the word "sucker"

[bf000777966]

In what scenario will you use this word? Is it an offensive word?(I have heard it in many youtube videos)

 

[khanhhung2512]

NOT A TEACHER
I've looked up the word in several dictionaries, including this one http://www.learnersdictionary.com/definition/sucker
It seems that the word might sometimes be informal, but not offensive. Of course, it also depends on how you use the word. If you use it wrong, it may be offensive.
Additionally, you may already be familiar with such sentences as: "It sucks," or "You suck." But according to several dictionaries I've consulted, a "sucker" is not the one who "sucks" in the same sense as in those sentences above. Nevertheless, I think some people might still invent a new meaning for "sucker" as "the one who sucks".
Am I wrong at anything?

 

[Tdol]

In what scenario will you use this word? Is it an offensive word?(I have heard it in many youtube videos)

It's not offensive to me- a sucker is an idiot who is easily fooled.

 

[Matthew Wai]

But would it be offensive to call someone a sucker, i.e. deem him/her an idiot?

Not a teacher.

 

[khanhhung2512]

But would it be offensive to call someone a sucker, i.e. deem him/her an idiot?
Not a teacher.

NOT A TEACHER
As I said, it depends on how you use the word. If you use it wrong, it may be offensive.
For example, calling a woman "sir" is definitely offensive, and I frequently see friends calling one another "moron" in movies.

 

[TheParser]

***** NOT A TEACHER *****


Hello, BF:


In my opinion, learners should NOT use that word.

As you become more fluent, then you will know when it may be used without being especially offensive or insulting.

Of course, it's always (?) OK to accuse oneself of being a sucker:



Mona: Did you do Pamela's homework for her?
James: Yes.
Mona: Why? You know that she always says bad things about you.
James: I know, but I'm a sucker for blondes. (= When a blonde asks me for a favor, I cannot say no.)

*****

Mona: Do you wear yellow shoes?
James: Of course, not.
Mona: Then why did you buy those yellow shoes today when we went shopping?
James: Because they were on sale at a discount of 50%. You know that I'm a sucker for bargains.



James

 

[Tdol]

But would it be offensive to call someone a sucker, i.e. deem him/her an idiot?.

If you're deeming them an idiot, you're taking responsibility for any offence caused, and should be aware that there may be some.