bandy
C2Formal, Literary, Technical (in medical/descriptive use for 'bandy-legged')
Definition
Meaning
To exchange words, ideas, or blows in a rapid, often contentious way; to pass back and forth. As an adjective: curved outward (bandy legs).
To discuss or mention a name, idea, or accusation frequently and casually; to toss about. Also refers to the curved shape of limbs or implements (e.g., a bandy hockey stick).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb typically implies a lack of seriousness or respect in the exchange (e.g., bandying insults). The adjective 'bandy-legged' is a fixed compound describing outward-curving legs (genu varum).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The verb is used similarly. The adjective 'bandy-legged' is more common in British English for description; American English might use 'bow-legged' with similar frequency.
Connotations
In both, the verb carries a negative connotation of trivial or aggressive exchange. 'Bandy-legged' is neutral/descriptive.
Frequency
Low frequency in both variants, but slightly higher recognition in UK due to historical/literary usage.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] bandy [Object] about/around[Subject] bandy words with [Object][Subject] be bandy-leggedVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “bandy words with someone”
- “not a word to be bandied about”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. 'We shouldn't bandy about figures before the audit.'
Academic
Rare in formal writing, may appear in literary analysis. 'The play's characters bandy epithets.'
Everyday
Very rare in casual speech. 'He's bandy-legged' is the most likely use.
Technical
Medical/physiotherapy: describing 'bandy legs' (genu varum).
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- I refuse to bandy words with a journalist of your calibre.
- The rumour was bandied about the club for weeks.
American English
- Let's not bandy accusations without evidence.
- His name has been bandied around as a potential candidate.
adjective
British English
- The old sailor had a distinctive, bandy-legged walk.
- He used a bandy stick for the game of bandy.
American English
- The cowboy's bandy legs were shaped by years in the saddle.
- The diagnosis confirmed the child was bandy-legged.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The old man walks in a funny way because he is bandy-legged.
- Politicians often bandy statistics about during debates.
- He was born slightly bandy-legged but it corrected itself.
- The two scholars bandied theological concepts late into the night, their debate growing increasingly esoteric.
- She grew tired of her name being bandied about in connection with the scandal.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine two people playing BANDY (a hockey-like sport) with words instead of a ball, hitting them back and forth aggressively.
Conceptual Metaphor
COMMUNICATION IS A PHYSICAL GAME (where words/ideas are objects tossed between players).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не переводить как 'банди' (бандит).
- Не путать с 'to band' (объединяться).
- В значении 'bandy-legged' – 'кривоногий', 'с колесом'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'bandy' as a noun for a person (incorrect).
- Confusing 'bandy about' with 'throw about' (less idiomatic for words).
- Using 'bandy' in positive contexts ('bandy compliments' is unusual).
Practice
Quiz
Which phrase is CORRECT?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's a low-frequency word (C2 level). You'll most likely encounter it in the fixed phrase 'bandy words' or the adjective 'bandy-legged'.
They are synonyms describing the same outward curve of the legs. 'Bandy-legged' is slightly more formal/literary; 'bow-legged' is more common in everyday American English.
Rarely. The verb inherently suggests a casual, often disrespectful or contentious exchange. 'Bandy compliments' would be ironic or unusual.
Yes, bandy is a real winter team sport similar to ice hockey, played with a ball. This is a distinct noun homograph, not covered in this entry which focuses on the verb/adjective.