pooch
C1Informal, colloquial
Definition
Meaning
A dog, especially a pet dog.
Informal term for a dog; can also mean to make a mistake or fail (verb).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily affectionate or humorous when referring to a dog. As a verb, it's slang meaning to ruin or spoil something.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both use 'pooch' for dog. The verb 'to pooch' (to mess up) is more common in American slang.
Connotations
Affectionate, slightly humorous in both varieties. Not used in formal contexts.
Frequency
More frequent in American English, but understood in British English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[owner] + [verb] + the/their/my + poochpooch + [verb]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “pooch screw (slang for a mistake)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in informal office talk (e.g., 'I pooched the presentation').
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Common in casual conversation about pets.
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He completely pooched the job interview by arriving late.
American English
- I pooched the engine by using the wrong oil.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My pooch is very friendly.
- We take our pooch for a walk every evening.
- The little pooch managed to escape from the garden.
- He inadvertently pooched the entire project by missing the deadline.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'pooch' sounding like 'poo' + 'ch' – a dog you might have to clean up after.
Conceptual Metaphor
PET AS FAMILY MEMBER (affectionate container)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'пучок' (bundle).
- Not a direct translation for 'собака' in formal contexts.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'pooch' in formal writing.
- Confusing noun and verb forms.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'pooch' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's affectionate and informal, not rude.
Yes, in informal American slang it means to ruin or spoil something.
Yes, but it's less common than in American English.
'Pooch' is informal and often implies affection; 'dog' is the standard, neutral term.