Numbskulls

Numbskulls, plural for numbskull, refers to individuals perceived as foolish, stupid, or unintelligent. The term often implies a lack of common sense or a slow-witted nature. It can be used playfully or critically, depending on the context and the speaker's intention. The word suggests a bluntness in intellect, an inability to grasp complex ideas, or a tendency to make silly mistakes. It's a dismissive term used to characterize those who are perceived as lacking in cognitive abilities or judgment. The implied meaning often includes a sense of frustration with the individual's perceived limitations.

Numbskulls meaning with examples

• Despite the clear instructions, the team of numbskulls managed to misinterpret the blueprints, causing a significant delay and budget overrun. Their consistent blunders frustrated the project manager, who sighed and said, 'Honestly, sometimes I feel like I'm working with a bunch of… numbskulls!' The lack of critical thinking skills was evident in their poor decisions.
• After the prank went terribly wrong, involving a pie fight and a fire alarm, the principal called the students involved a group of numbskulls. They caused widespread chaos with their childish antics. 'You’ve all caused serious damage to the school property, you utter numbskulls,' he exclaimed, grounding them all. Their thoughtless actions created a lasting negative impact.
• The politician, known for his gaffes and simplistic views, was often described by his opponents as a numbskull. His supporters, on the other hand, saw him as honest and down-to-earth, disregarding any criticism. Many felt this leader made an example of poor decision-making, calling for a more capable individual. His public statements were met with much derision.
• During the chaotic board meeting, several members made several financially irresponsible suggestions, prompting the CFO to mutter under his breath, 'What a bunch of numbskulls!' The potential risks from their naive ideas were enormous. The situation was chaotic, with several of those involved having no idea how to approach the topic.
• The teacher, exasperated by the students' repeated failures to understand basic concepts, called them a group of numbskulls. Their unwillingness to study, their careless approach to homework, and their overall lack of effort had tested her patience to its limits, forcing her to start again. The students looked shamefully at the ground, hoping she wouldn’t single them out.