washed-up

/ˌwɑːʃt ˈʌp/ (US) · /ˌwɒʃt ˈʌp/ (UK)

washed-up — adjective

1. describes a person whose career, talent, or popularity has ended and is unlikely

1.形容詞B2
釋義

describes a person whose career, talent, or popularity has ended and is unlikely to return to its former level.

例句

After three failed films, even his old friends called the director washed-up.

passive: be called washed-up

The washed-up singer now performs at small bars for very little money.

attributive: a washed-up [noun]

同義詞
  • finished

    more general and slightly less harsh; can apply to any situation, not just careers

  • over the hill

    more informal and focuses on age rather than loss of skill

  • past one's prime

    milder and often more sympathetic; suggests natural decline rather than failure

反義詞
  • up-and-coming

    describes someone whose career is just beginning to succeed

  • rising

    describes someone gaining success and popularity

文法句型

be washed-up

a washed-up [noun]

用法筆記

Common in informal conversation about entertainment, sports, or politics. Often carries a dismissive or pitying tone.

常見錯誤

He is washed-up with his homework.
He is finished with his homework.
💡'washed-up' only applies to careers or abilities, not daily tasks.
She looks washed-up in that dress.
She looks washed-out in that dress.
💡'washed-up' means a failed career, not tired or faded in appearance.