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Hernandez
Hi, everyone I have two questions about American English slang: 1) Are the words "chiseler", "grifter" and "con artist/man/woman" still in common use today? If so, what's the difference between them? 2) I learned that "deadbeat" is used to refer to someone who doesn't pay their debts. However, I often see it used as a way to refer to a lazy or irresponsible father who doesn't pay child support. I'd like to know if that word can still be used to refer to someone who doesn't pay their debts. For example, if your friend owes you 20 dollars and you want to asks him for the money in a joking tone, could you say "You still haven't paid me back, you deadbeat!".. Does that sound odd? When is "deadbeat" used? Thank you very much!
Aug 31, 2021 4:45 AM
Answers · 6
1
Ive never heard the term chiseler or grifter, but con artist is still used. I’ve only used deadbeat to mean a parent who doesn’t take care of their children. I’ve never heard it used for someone who doesn’t pay their debts.
August 31, 2021
Chiseler and grifter are used, but not necessarily often. CONMAN / CONARTIST or SWINDLER are more common. I think you understand DEADBEAT correctly. Your joking use of DEADBEAT is perfect.
August 31, 2021
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