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adj

effing

EH-fihng
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Effing (adj) means a euphemistic substitute for "fucking," used as a mild intensifier or curse. Example: “Where are my effing keys?”

adj
1
A euphemistic substitute for "fucking," used as a mild intensifier or curse.
"Where are my effing keys?"

How to use effing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA softened stand-in for a much stronger swear word.

When to use it

Informal; used to curse while sounding slightly less crude.

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Where are my _____ keys?

Etymology

Formed from eff, itself derived from the letter name of F, plus "-ing."

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “effing” mean?
The word “effing” means a euphemistic substitute for "fucking," used as a mild intensifier or curse. In plain terms, a softened stand-in for a much stronger swear word.
How do you pronounce “effing”?
“Effing” is pronounced EH-fihng (/ˈɛfɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “effing” in a sentence?
Here is “effing” used in a sentence: “Where are my effing keys?”
What part of speech is “effing”?
“Effing” is an adjective.

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