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primitive
When used to describe people or cultures, the word "primitive" can be seen as offensive or insensitive because it suggests they are 'backward' or less developed than modern societies. In technical contexts, such as computer science or mathematics, it refers to the most basic building blocks that cannot be broken down further.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon; Chloe is at the university library, David is in his office.
David Smith
Found this old flip phone in the attic. Pretty primitive tech, right?
Chloe Smith
Stop trying too hard. Just toss it before you embarrass yourself.
💡
David is attempting to bond with his daughter by using 'primitive' to describe outdated technology, while Chloe uses the phrasal verb 'trying too hard' and 'toss it' (throw away) to shut down his attempt at being a 'cool dad'.
Meanings
adjective
Relating to an early stage in the evolutionary or historical development of something.
"The museum displayed primitive stone tools used by early humans."