Chickenheartedly

Acting in a cowardly or timid manner; lacking courage or bravery, especially when faced with a perceived threat or challenge. This action is characterized by fear, hesitation, and a reluctance to take risks or confront difficult situations. It often involves avoiding conflict, withdrawing from challenging situations, or relying on others to handle problems. The word suggests a deficiency in resolve and a tendency to prioritize personal safety over principle or duty. Chickenhearted behavior might be prompted by a variety of fears, including fear of failure, social repercussions, or physical harm.

Chickenheartedly meaning with examples

• He chickenheartedly refused to testify against his friends, even though he knew it would help solve the case and bring justice to the victims. His fear of retribution outweighed his sense of civic responsibility.
• Despite the urgent need, the team chickenheartedly avoided presenting their innovative proposal during the conference, afraid of criticism and rejection from the more established scientists and firms.
• She chickenheartedly declined to confront her boss about the unfair treatment, fearing she would lose her job, thus she became resentful toward the situation and her boss.
• When the robber pulled out his gun, the store manager chickenheartedly handed over all the money in the till without a fight, prioritizing his and the other employee's safety over the store's financial loss.