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B1 noun #20 mais comum 14 min de leitura

imps

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas imps em 30 segundos

Explicação imps in your Level:

The word 'imps' is a word for children who are a little bit 'bad' but in a funny or cute way. Imagine a small child who hides your shoes for a game. That child is an 'imp.' In very old stories, imps are also small monsters that look like tiny devils. They are not big or scary, but they like to play tricks. You can think of an imp as a 'little helper' for a bad person in a story, or just a very energetic child who does not listen to their parents. It is a plural word, so 'imps' means more than one. If you see children running and making a mess but they are laughing, you can say, 'Look at those little imps!' It is a friendly way to say they are being naughty. You should use this word with friends and family, not in a serious school test or a doctor's office.

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In A2 level English, you can use 'imps' to describe mischievous behavior. Mischievous means someone likes to play tricks or cause minor trouble. Imps are common in fairy tales and fantasy movies. They are small creatures, often with wings or tails, that serve witches or wizards. They are famous for being fast and hard to catch. People also use 'imps' to talk about children. If a group of kids is being noisy and playing pranks, they are called imps. It is a more interesting word than just saying 'naughty children.' It suggests that the children have a lot of energy and are clever. For example, 'The imps ran through the garden and got mud everywhere.' When you hear this word, remember it usually means 'small and troublesome.'

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At the B1 level, 'imps' is a useful noun for describing a specific type of character or person. It refers to small, mischievous creatures from folklore, often portrayed as tiny demons or attendants of spirits. However, its most frequent use in daily life is metaphorical. It describes children who are behaving in a playfully naughty or troublesome way. The key here is the 'playful' aspect. If a child is truly being mean, you wouldn't call them an imp. An imp is someone whose mischief is somewhat endearing or expected. For instance, 'The little imps had spent the afternoon drawing on the walls with crayons.' The word carries a sense of lightheartedness. It is also common in fantasy literature and games, where imps are low-level magical beings that cause frustration for the main characters.

At the B2 level, you should recognize the nuanced connotations of 'imps.' While the literal definition involves minor mythological demons, the word is often used to add a 'flavor' of folklore to a description. It implies a certain 'puckish' quality—a term derived from the character Puck in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' When you call children 'imps,' you are drawing on a long cultural tradition of seeing childhood as a time of natural, harmless rebellion. It is a word that balances between a compliment and a complaint. In literary analysis, imps might represent the 'id' or the chaotic side of human nature. You will also see the adjective form, 'impish,' used to describe a look or a smile that suggests someone is thinking of a prank. Understanding 'imps' helps you grasp the British tendency toward using slightly archaic, colorful language to describe everyday chaos.

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For C1 learners, 'imps' represents a word with significant historical and stylistic weight. Etymologically, it comes from the Old English 'impa,' meaning a graft or a young shoot of a plant. This evolved into meaning 'offspring,' and eventually 'offspring of the devil.' This history explains why the word feels both organic and supernatural. In sophisticated writing, 'imps' can be used to personify small, nagging problems or intrusive thoughts—the 'imps of the mind.' It is a word that allows for precision in describing the scale of trouble. Unlike 'demons' (which are existential threats) or 'monsters' (which are physical threats), 'imps' are psychological or social irritants. Using 'imps' in your writing demonstrates a command of English register, as it moves the tone from purely literal to something more evocative and culturally grounded.

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At the C2 level, 'imps' is a tool for subtle characterization and atmospheric writing. It can be used to evoke a specific 'Gothic' or 'Victorian' sensibility, where the supernatural is always lurking just beneath the surface of the domestic. A C2 speaker might use 'imps' to describe the chaotic elements of a complex system—'the imps in the algorithm'—suggesting that the errors are not just random but almost have a mischievous will of their own. You should also be aware of its use in art history and architecture (like the Lincoln Imp) and how these physical manifestations of the word influence its modern perception. The word functions as a 'shibboleth' of sorts; using it correctly in its metaphorical sense shows a deep immersion in the idiomatic and historical layers of the English language, moving beyond simple communication into the realm of stylistic flair.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

imps em 30 segundos

Imps are small, mischievous creatures from folklore, often acting as tiny demons or tricksters.
The word is frequently used to describe children who are playfully naughty or troublesome.
It carries a lighthearted tone, suggesting that the mischief is harmless or even charming.
Commonly found in fantasy literature, gaming, and casual British English conversation.

The word imps serves as a fascinating bridge between the dark corridors of medieval folklore and the lighthearted, sometimes exasperated, world of modern parenting. Historically, an imp was considered a small demon, often a lesser being in the hierarchy of hell, tasked with performing minor tasks for more powerful spirits or sorcerers. Unlike the grand, terrifying demons of epic poetry, imps were characterized by their small stature and their penchant for mischief rather than outright malevolence. They were the tricksters of the supernatural world, responsible for curdling milk, tangling hair, or leading travelers astray in the woods. This duality—being both supernatural and annoying—is key to understanding how the word evolved into its contemporary usage.

Folklore Definition: In traditional European mythology, imps are small, often winged creatures that serve as attendants to witches or devils. They are frequently depicted as being roughly the size of a human child but with grotesque features like horns, tails, and leathery wings.

In modern English, the term has undergone a process of 'amelioration,' where a word with a negative meaning becomes more positive or neutral. Today, if someone calls a group of children imps, they are rarely suggesting the children are literally demonic. Instead, they are highlighting a specific type of behavior: playful, energetic, and slightly disobedient. It is a word used to describe children who are 'naughty' in a way that is often seen as charming or expected for their age. It implies a certain level of intelligence and creativity behind their mischief. For instance, a child who hides their father's car keys as a joke might be called a 'little imp.'

The garden was suddenly filled with a group of muddy imps who had decided that the flowerbeds were the perfect place for a treasure hunt.

Metaphorical Usage: Beyond children, the word can be applied to adults who possess a 'puckish' or mischievous quality. An actor who constantly plays pranks on set might be described as having an 'impish' grin or being an imp among his peers.

Culturally, imps appear frequently in fantasy literature and gaming. In games like Dungeons & Dragons or World of Warcraft, imps are often the first creatures a warlock might summon. They represent low-level threats that rely on speed and trickery rather than brute strength. This reinforces the core concept of the word: small, manageable, but consistently irritating. When using this word, consider the power dynamic; an imp is almost always smaller or less powerful than the person observing them, which is why the term feels appropriate for children or small creatures.

In the old legends, the sorcerer was always accompanied by two shadowy imps who whispered secrets into his ears.

Tone and Context: The tone of 'imps' is usually informal and can range from affectionate to mildly annoyed. It is rarely used in formal academic writing unless discussing folklore, mythology, or specific literary characters.

Finally, it is worth noting the visual imagery associated with the word. When we think of imps, we think of sharp features, quick movements, and bright, knowing eyes. This visual shorthand helps convey the personality of the subject without needing extensive adjectives. Whether you are describing a character in a fairy tale or your own nieces and nephews during a holiday gathering, 'imps' captures that unique blend of trouble and charm that few other words can match. It suggests a life force that is slightly out of control but ultimately harmless in the grand scheme of things.

Using the word imps correctly requires an understanding of the balance between its literal and figurative meanings. Because it carries both a mythological weight and a colloquial charm, the surrounding context must signal to the reader which version you intend. In a fantasy novel, 'imps' will be taken literally as supernatural entities. In a domestic setting, they will be understood as energetic children. The versatility of the word allows it to function in various sentence structures, often acting as the subject of verbs related to movement, noise, or deception.

Describing Behavior: When describing children, 'imps' is often paired with adjectives that emphasize their energy or the mess they create. Common pairings include 'little imps,' 'mischievous imps,' or 'muddy imps.'

By the time the babysitter arrived, the three imps had already turned the living room into a fort made of sofa cushions and glitter.

In more literary or descriptive writing, 'imps' can be used to personify abstract concepts or natural elements. For example, one might describe 'imps of doubt' or 'imps of the wind.' This metaphorical usage draws on the idea of imps as small, persistent, and difficult to catch. It suggests that these thoughts or elements are actively working to cause confusion or minor trouble. This is a sophisticated way to use the word, moving beyond its basic definitions into the realm of poetic imagery.

Folklore and Fantasy Context: In these contexts, 'imps' are often described in terms of their physical appearance or their magical abilities. They are frequently found in 'swarms' or 'hordes,' emphasizing their small size and strength in numbers.

Consider the difference in these two sentences: 'The imps cackled as they threw fireballs at the hero' versus 'The imps giggled as they hid their mother's shoes.' The verb choice ('cackled' vs. 'giggled') and the action ('fireballs' vs. 'hid shoes') immediately clarify whether we are in a world of magic or a suburban home. This demonstrates how 'imps' adapts to its environment. It is a highly 'plastic' word, meaning its connotation is easily shaped by the words around it.

The ancient manuscript was filled with marginalia—tiny drawings of imps dancing around the capital letters.

Idiomatic and Phrasal Use: While not part of many fixed idioms, 'imps' is often used in the phrase 'imp of the perverse,' a term coined by Edgar Allan Poe to describe the urge to do the wrong thing simply because it is wrong.

To master the use of 'imps,' practice using it in place of more generic words like 'children' or 'creatures' when you want to add a layer of personality. Instead of saying 'The kids were being bad,' say 'The imps were up to their old tricks.' This small change enriches your writing and provides a clearer picture of the energy in the room. It transforms a flat observation into a vivid, character-driven description.

In the modern world, you are most likely to encounter the word imps in three specific domains: literature (especially fantasy and children's books), gaming, and British English colloquialisms. Each of these areas utilizes a different facet of the word's history. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the nuance when you hear it in conversation or see it on a screen. It is a word that feels slightly 'old-fashioned' to some, which gives it a certain charm and authority when used correctly.

Fantasy Literature and Media: From the works of J.R.R. Tolkien to modern series like 'Harry Potter' or 'The Witcher,' imps are a staple of the bestiary. They are the 'cannon fodder' of the magical world—creatures that are dangerous in groups but individually manageable.

In the movie, the wizard's workshop was infested with imps that kept stealing his spectacles and hiding his wand.

In the realm of video games, 'imps' are ubiquitous. They appear in classics like 'Doom,' where they are fireball-throwing enemies, and in 'World of Warcraft,' where they serve as companions to the Warlock class. In these digital spaces, the word 'imp' has become a shorthand for a specific type of enemy: small, ranged, and annoying. Gamers use the word frequently to describe these units, often complaining about their 'imp spam' or their high speed. This has kept the word alive and relevant for a younger generation who might not be familiar with medieval folklore.

Classic Literature and Poetry: Authors like Shakespeare, Milton, and Poe used 'imps' to evoke a sense of the supernatural or the perverse. In Milton's 'Paradise Lost,' the word is used in its older sense of 'offspring,' specifically the offspring of the fallen angels.

You might also hear the word in the context of history or architecture. The 'Lincoln Imp' is a famous stone carving in Lincoln Cathedral in England. Legend has it that the imp was turned to stone by an angel after causing chaos in the cathedral. This specific imp has become a symbol of the city of Lincoln, appearing on everything from postcards to football club badges. This is a prime example of how a word can become localized and embedded in the physical landscape of a place.

Tourists often visit the cathedral specifically to catch a glimpse of the famous imps carved high up in the rafters.

Parenting and Education: Teachers or parents might use the word to describe a group of students who are being particularly restless. 'Alright, you little imps, settle down!' is a common phrase that acknowledges the children's energy without being overly harsh.

In summary, 'imps' is a word that survives because it fills a very specific niche. It describes a type of character that is small, energetic, and disruptive but not truly evil. Whether it's a pixelated monster on a screen, a stone carving in a 12th-century cathedral, or a toddler covered in jam, the 'imp' is a recognizable figure across cultures and centuries. Hearing the word today connects you to a long history of storytelling and human observation.

While imps is a relatively straightforward word, its dual nature (mythological vs. colloquial) can lead to some confusion for English learners. The most common mistakes involve misjudging the 'weight' of the word—either taking it too literally when it's meant figuratively, or using it in contexts where its demonic origins might cause unintended offense. Additionally, learners often confuse 'imps' with other similar mythological creatures like elves, pixies, or goblins, each of which has a distinct personality and set of associations.

Confusing with Other Creatures: One major mistake is using 'imps' interchangeably with 'elves.' Elves are often seen as elegant, wise, or helpful (like Santa's elves). Imps, however, are always mischievous or troublesome. If you call a helpful child an 'imp,' it might sound confusing.

Incorrect: The imps helped the shoemaker finish his work overnight. (Correct: The elves/brownies helped...)

Another mistake is using 'imps' to describe serious bad behavior. If a child is being truly cruel or destructive, calling them an 'imp' is too lighthearted. It minimizes the severity of the situation. In such cases, words like 'delinquents' or simply 'naughty' are more appropriate. 'Imps' should be reserved for behavior that is annoying but ultimately harmless or funny. Using it for serious misdeeds can make the speaker seem like they aren't taking the problem seriously.

Overusing the Literal Meaning: Learners sometimes forget that 'imps' is a very common way to describe children. They might search for a more complex word like 'mischievous youngsters' when 'little imps' would be much more natural and idiomatic in a casual conversation.

There is also the issue of the singular vs. plural. While 'imp' is perfectly fine, the word is overwhelmingly used in the plural when referring to children. Referring to a single child as 'an imp' can sometimes sound a bit more pointed or specific, whereas 'you imps' feels like a general observation of a group's energy. Furthermore, don't confuse 'imp' with 'impish.' 'Impish' is an adjective describing a look or a quality (e.g., 'an impish grin'), while 'imp' is the noun itself.

Incorrect: He had an imps smile. (Correct: He had an impish smile.)

Spelling and Pronunciation: The word is short, but the 'mp' cluster can be tricky for speakers of languages that don't allow those consonants together. Ensure the 'm' is fully voiced before the 'p' pop. Also, avoid adding an extra vowel sound like 'im-pus.'

In summary, the key to avoiding mistakes with 'imps' is to remember its 'mischief' component. If there is no mischief involved, 'imps' is likely the wrong word. If the mischief is too dark or serious, 'imps' is also likely the wrong word. It sits in that perfect middle ground of 'playfully troublesome.' By keeping this in mind, you can use the word to add color and character to your English without fear of being misunderstood.

The English language is rich with words for people and creatures that cause trouble. While imps is a great choice, knowing its synonyms and alternatives will help you choose the exact 'flavor' of mischief you want to describe. Some words focus on the cuteness of the trouble, while others focus on the supernatural element or the level of annoyance. Below is a comparison of 'imps' with its closest linguistic relatives.

Imps vs. Rascals: 'Rascals' is perhaps the closest synonym when referring to children. However, 'rascals' feels a bit more old-fashioned and slightly more 'human.' 'Imps' retains a hint of that supernatural energy—a sense that the children are almost like a different species when they are in their mischievous mode.

The little rascals stole a cookie, but the little imps hid the entire cookie jar.

When looking at the supernatural side, 'goblins' and 'gremlins' are the primary alternatives. 'Goblins' are usually depicted as larger, uglier, and more malicious than imps. 'Gremlins' are specifically associated with the breakdown of machinery and technology. If your computer is acting up, you might say it has 'gremlins,' but you wouldn't usually say it has 'imps.' 'Imps' are more about personal, social mischief rather than mechanical failure.

Imps vs. Pixies/Sprites: Pixies and sprites are also small and magical, but they are often associated with nature and beauty. An imp is 'earthy' and a bit dirty; a pixie is 'airy' and magical. You would call a child an imp if they were covered in mud, but a pixie if they were dancing gracefully in a costume.

In a more formal or literary context, you might use the word 'cherub' as an antonym of sorts. A cherub is a sweet, innocent-looking child (like the angels in Renaissance paintings). Calling a child an 'imp' is the direct opposite of calling them a 'cherub.' It's the difference between seeing a child as a little angel or a little devil. Many parents find their children oscillate between being imps and cherubs several times a day.

One moment they look like cherubs while they sleep, and the next they are imps tearing through the house.

Modern Slang Alternatives: In very casual modern slang, people might use 'menace' or 'terror.' 'He's a little menace!' carries a similar energy to 'He's a little imp!', though 'menace' feels slightly more aggressive and 'imp' feels more playful.

By understanding these distinctions, you can use 'imps' with precision. It is a word that sits at the intersection of the magical and the mundane, the ancient and the modern. Whether you are writing a story about a haunted forest or just telling a friend about your chaotic weekend with your nephews, choosing 'imps' over its alternatives sends a specific message about the nature of the chaos: it's small, it's clever, and it's probably going to make you laugh once the initial annoyance wears off.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The word 'imp' was originally a very positive word! It was used in formal prayers to describe children as 'noble imps' (noble offspring). It wasn't until later that it became associated with demons and mischief.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ɪmps/

US /ɪmps/

Single syllable word; the stress is on the entire word.

Rima com

limps shrimps pimps skimps glimps blimps chimps crimps

Erros comuns

Adding a vowel between 'm' and 'p' (e.g., 'im-ups').
Making the 'i' sound too long like 'ee' (e.g., 'eemps').
Dropping the 'p' sound entirely (e.g., 'ims').
Making the 's' sound like a 'z' (e.g., 'impz').
Adding an extra syllable at the end (e.g., 'imp-es').

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

The word is short and easy to recognize in text, especially in fantasy genres.

Escrita 4/5

Using it metaphorically for children requires a good sense of tone and register.

Expressão oral 3/5

Pronunciation is simple, though the 'mps' ending can be a slight challenge for some.

Audição 3/5

Easily heard, but can be confused with 'chimps' or 'limps' in noisy environments.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

child small bad story naughty

Aprenda a seguir

mischievous folklore mythology rascal scamp

Avançado

puckish perverse familiar (noun) diminutive amelioration

Gramática essencial

Pluralization of nouns ending in -p

imp -> imps, lamp -> lamps, map -> maps.

Using 'like' for comparisons

They were running around like imps.

Collective nouns for creatures

A swarm of imps, a horde of imps.

Adjective formation with -ish

imp -> impish (meaning having the qualities of an imp).

Possessive form of plural nouns ending in -s

The imps' mischief (the mischief belonging to the imps).

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Exemplos por nível

The little imps are playing in the mud.

Los pequeños diablillos están jugando en el barro.

Plural noun 'imps' acting as the subject.

Are those imps in the story scary?

¿Son esos diablillos en la historia aterradores?

Interrogative sentence using 'imps'.

The imps stole my hat!

¡Los diablillos me robaron el sombrero!

Simple past tense 'stole'.

I have two little imps at home.

Tengo dos pequeños diablillos en casa.

Using 'imps' as a metaphor for children.

The imps live in the dark forest.

Los diablillos viven en el bosque oscuro.

Present simple for a general fact in a story.

Don't be little imps, please.

No sean diablillos, por favor.

Imperative mood (negative).

The imps have tiny wings.

Los diablillos tienen alas diminutas.

Descriptive sentence with 'have'.

We saw three imps in the movie.

Vimos tres diablillos en la película.

Countable noun usage.

The mischievous imps hid the teacher's chalk.

Los traviesos diablillos escondieron la tiza del profesor.

Adjective 'mischievous' modifying 'imps'.

In the game, imps throw small fireballs.

En el juego, los diablillos lanzan pequeñas bolas de fuego.

Present simple for habitual action.

My nephews are such little imps when they visit.

Mis sobrinos son unos diablillos cuando vienen de visita.

Use of 'such' for emphasis.

The imps were small but very fast.

Los diablillos eran pequeños pero muy rápidos.

Past tense of 'to be' with adjectives.

Do you believe in imps and fairies?

¿Crees en los diablillos y las hadas?

Plural nouns in a general question.

The imps made a lot of noise in the kitchen.

Los diablillos hicieron mucho ruido en la cocina.

Noun phrase 'a lot of noise'.

He called the naughty puppies 'little imps'.

Llamó a los cachorros traviesos 'pequeños diablillos'.

Direct object 'little imps'.

The imps disappeared into the shadows.

Los diablillos desaparecieron en las sombras.

Intransitive verb 'disappeared'.

The folklore describes imps as the devil's playful attendants.

El folclore describe a los diablillos como los juguetones asistentes del diablo.

Noun as an object of the verb 'describes'.

Those imps have been quiet for too long; they must be up to something.

Esos diablillos han estado callados demasiado tiempo; deben estar tramando algo.

Present perfect continuous 'have been' and idiom 'up to something'.

The children acted like little imps during the long wedding ceremony.

Los niños se comportaron como pequeños diablillos durante la larga ceremonia de boda.

Simile using 'like'.

In many stories, imps are responsible for minor household accidents.

En muchas historias, los diablillos son responsables de pequeños accidentes domésticos.

Adjective phrase 'responsible for'.

The wizard summoned a swarm of imps to distract the guards.

El mago invocó un enjambre de diablillos para distraer a los guardias.

Collective noun 'swarm of'.

I can't stay mad at them; they're just harmless little imps.

No puedo seguir enfadado con ellos; solo son pequeños diablillos inofensivos.

Contraction 'they're' and adjective 'harmless'.

The old cathedral features carvings of imps hidden in the stone.

La antigua catedral cuenta con tallas de diablillos escondidas en la piedra.

Passive participle 'hidden' modifying 'imps'.

He has an impish sense of humor that sometimes goes too far.

Tiene un sentido del humor travieso que a veces va demasiado lejos.

Adjective form 'impish'.

The author uses imps to symbolize the chaotic impulses of the protagonist.

El autor utiliza diablillos para simbolizar los impulsos caóticos del protagonista.

Infinitive of purpose 'to symbolize'.

Despite their frightening appearance, the imps were more annoying than dangerous.

A pesar de su apariencia aterradora, los diablillos eran más molestos que peligrosos.

Comparative structure 'more... than'.

The garden was overrun by a band of imps, or so the legend claimed.

El jardín fue invadido por una banda de diablillos, o al menos eso afirmaba la leyenda.

Passive voice 'was overrun' and 'or so' phrase.

She referred to her students as 'her little imps' with a mixture of affection and exhaustion.

Se refería a sus alumnos como 'sus pequeños diablillos' con una mezcla de afecto y agotamiento.

Reporting verb 'referred to... as'.

The imps of folklore were often blamed for things that science couldn't explain.

A los diablillos del folclore se les culpaba a menudo de cosas que la ciencia no podía explicar.

Relative clause 'that science couldn't explain'.

The play features a chorus of imps who provide a cynical commentary on the action.

La obra presenta un coro de diablillos que proporcionan un comentario cínico sobre la acción.

Subject relative pronoun 'who'.

It was as if a thousand imps were dancing in his head, preventing him from sleeping.

Era como si mil diablillos estuvieran bailando en su cabeza, impidiéndole dormir.

Subjunctive mood 'were dancing' after 'as if'.

The imps' primary role in the myth was to test the hero's patience.

El papel principal de los diablillos en el mito era poner a prueba la paciencia del héroe.

Possessive plural 'imps''.

The narrative is peppered with imps, serving as a constant reminder of the world's inherent instability.

La narrativa está salpicada de diablillos, sirviendo como un recordatorio constante de la inestabilidad inherente del mundo.

Participle phrase 'serving as...'.

Poe’s 'Imp of the Perverse' explores the self-destructive urge that dwells within us all.

El 'Diablillo de lo Perverso' de Poe explora el impulso autodestructivo que habita en todos nosotros.

Proper noun usage and literary reference.

The political cartoon depicted the lobbyists as imps whispering into the ears of the senators.

La caricatura política representaba a los cabilderos como diablillos susurrando al oído de los senadores.

Verb 'depicted' with 'as' for metaphorical comparison.

One might argue that these 'imps of progress' are actually hindering our social development.

Se podría argumentar que estos 'diablillos del progreso' en realidad están obstaculizando nuestro desarrollo social.

Modal 'might' for academic hedging.

The imps in the tapestry were so finely woven they seemed almost to breathe.

Los diablillos en el tapiz estaban tan finamente tejidos que casi parecían respirar.

Adverbial clause of result 'so... that'.

He dismissed the technical glitches as mere 'imps in the machine'.

Desestimó los fallos técnicos como meros 'diablillos en la máquina'.

Noun phrase used as a dismissive metaphor.

The children’s transformation from angelic sleepers to morning imps was instantaneous.

La transformación de los niños de durmientes angelicales a diablillos matutinos fue instantánea.

Complex noun phrase as subject.

The folklore scholar noted that imps often represent the liminal space between the human and the divine.

El estudioso del folclore señaló que los diablillos a menudo representan el espacio liminal entre lo humano y lo divino.

That-clause as a direct object.

The prose is haunted by the imps of memory, small fragments of the past that refuse to be forgotten.

La prosa está habitada por los diablillos de la memoria, pequeños fragmentos del pasado que se niegan a ser olvidados.

Metaphorical personification of memory.

In the grand theater of the court, the jesters were the sanctioned imps, allowed to speak truth through mockery.

En el gran teatro de la corte, los bufones eran los diablillos autorizados, a quienes se les permitía decir la verdad a través de la burla.

Appositive phrase 'allowed to speak...'.

The architect’s decision to include imps in the frieze was seen as a subversive nod to the building's secular purpose.

La decisión del arquitecto de incluir diablillos en el friso fue vista como un guiño subversivo al propósito secular del edificio.

Passive voice 'was seen as' with a complex subject.

There is a certain impishness in her writing that belies the gravity of her subject matter.

Hay una cierta travesura en su escritura que contradice la gravedad de su tema.

Noun 'impishness' derived from the root.

The imps of the perverse seem to govern the stock market's more irrational fluctuations.

Los diablillos de lo perverso parecen gobernar las fluctuaciones más irracionales del mercado de valores.

Literary allusion used in a modern economic context.

To call them imps is to engage in a linguistic softening of what is essentially predatory behavior.

Llamarlos diablillos es participar en un suavizamiento lingüístico de lo que es esencialmente un comportamiento depredador.

Infinitive phrases used as subject and complement.

The imps of his imagination were far more terrifying than any real-world threat.

Los diablillos de su imaginación eran mucho más aterradores que cualquier amenaza del mundo real.

Comparative 'far more... than'.

The translation fails to capture the specific cultural resonance of the 'imps' mentioned in the original text.

La traducción no logra captar la resonancia cultural específica de los 'diablillos' mencionados en el texto original.

Noun phrase 'cultural resonance'.

Colocações comuns

little imps

mischievous imps

impish grin

swarm of imps

muddy imps

summon imps

playful imps

tiny imps

imp of the perverse

imps of hell

Frases Comuns

You little imp!

— A playful way to scold a child for doing something naughty but funny.

You little imp! You ate all the chocolate!

Up to their old tricks like imps.

— Doing the same mischievous things they always do.

The twins are up to their old tricks like imps.

Like a bunch of imps.

— Comparing a group of people (usually children) to mischievous creatures.

They were running around like a bunch of imps.

An impish look.

— A facial expression that suggests someone is about to do something naughty.

She gave me an impish look before hiding my keys.

Impish behavior.

— Actions that are playful and slightly troublesome.

His impish behavior made the class laugh.

The Lincoln Imp.

— A specific famous stone carving in Lincoln Cathedral.

Have you seen the Lincoln Imp?

Little imps of mischief.

— A poetic way to describe children or small creatures causing trouble.

The kittens were little imps of mischief.

A swarm of imps.

— A large, chaotic group of small creatures.

The kitchen was filled with a swarm of imps.

Impish delight.

— Great pleasure taken in playing a prank or being naughty.

He watched the prank unfold with impish delight.

The imps in the machine.

— A metaphorical way to describe mysterious technical problems.

The software has some imps in the machine today.

Frequentemente confundido com

imps vs elves

Elves are often helpful or elegant; imps are always mischievous or troublesome.

imps vs chimps

Chimps are animals (chimpanzees); imps are mythological creatures or naughty kids. They sound similar.

imps vs limps

Limps is a verb/noun related to walking with difficulty. It is a homophone in some accents.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Imp of the perverse"

— The psychological urge to do something wrong or dangerous simply because it is forbidden.

I felt the imp of the perverse telling me to jump, even though I'm afraid of heights.

literary

"To have an imp on one's shoulder"

— To be tempted to do something mischievous or bad.

It felt like I had an imp on my shoulder telling me to skip work.

informal

"Impish glee"

— Extreme happiness caused by causing minor trouble.

She watched her brother search for his shoes with impish glee.

neutral

"A little imp of a child"

— A very small and very mischievous child.

He was a little imp of a child, always climbing things.

informal

"To act the imp"

— To behave in a mischievous or playful way.

Stop acting the imp and finish your homework.

informal

"Imps of darkness"

— A dramatic way to refer to demons or evil spirits.

The old stories spoke of imps of darkness stealing children.

literary

"To be possessed by an imp"

— To suddenly start acting very mischievously.

The toddler seemed possessed by an imp this afternoon.

informal

"Impish charm"

— A type of attractiveness based on being playful and a bit of a rebel.

He won her over with his impish charm.

neutral

"The imps are out"

— A way to say that children are being particularly active and naughty.

The imps are out today; watch your belongings!

informal

"Imp-like"

— Resembling an imp in appearance or behavior.

The creature had an imp-like face with pointed ears.

neutral

Fácil de confundir

imps vs Goblins

Both are small, ugly, and mischievous.

Goblins are usually larger, more physically strong, and more malicious. Imps are smaller and more about pranks than harm.

The imps hid the gold, but the goblins stole it and fought the guards.

imps vs Gremlins

Both cause trouble.

Gremlins specifically target machinery and technology. Imps target people and social situations.

I think there are gremlins in my car, but those imps in the garden are pulling up the flowers.

imps vs Pixies

Both are small and magical.

Pixies are associated with nature, flowers, and beauty. Imps are associated with darkness, dirt, and demons.

The pixies helped the plants grow, while the imps tried to trip the gardener.

imps vs Sprites

Both are small spirits.

Sprites are often elemental (water, air) and more ethereal. Imps are more solid and 'devilish'.

The water sprites were beautiful, but the imps were just annoying.

imps vs Rascals

Both describe naughty children.

Rascals is purely human and slightly more old-fashioned. Imps implies a supernatural level of energy or mischief.

The little rascals forgot their homework, but the little imps hid the teacher's car keys.

Padrões de frases

The [adjective] imps are [verb-ing].

The little imps are jumping.

He/She called them [imps].

She called the boys imps.

They were acting like [imps].

The students were acting like imps.

It was as if [imps] were [verb-ing].

It was as if imps were playing in the attic.

The [imps] of [abstract noun].

The imps of doubt clouded his mind.

A [noun] characterized by [impishness].

A performance characterized by impishness and wit.

Despite being [adjective], the imps...

Despite being small, the imps caused a lot of trouble.

The [imps] were responsible for [noun].

The imps were responsible for the missing keys.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

imp

impishness

Adjetivos

impish

imp-like

Relacionado

mischief

demon

sprite

goblin

rascal

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Como usar

frequency

Common in literature and parenting; rare in business or technical contexts.

Erros comuns

Using 'imps' for helpful creatures. → Using 'elves' or 'brownies'.
Imps are by definition mischievous. If a creature is helping you clean your house, it is not an imp.
Saying 'He has an imps smile'. → He has an impish smile.
You must use the adjective form 'impish' to describe a quality or look. 'Imps' is only the plural noun.
Using 'imps' to describe serious criminals. → Using 'thugs' or 'criminals'.
Imps are for minor mischief. Using it for serious crimes makes you sound like you don't understand the situation.
Pronouncing it as 'im-piz'. → Pronouncing it as 'imps' (one syllable).
The 's' at the end does not add a new syllable. It is a quick, sharp sound at the end of the word.
Confusing 'imps' with 'chimps'. → Using 'imps' for creatures/kids and 'chimps' for monkeys.
These words sound similar but have completely different meanings. Chimps are real animals; imps are not.

Dicas

Use for Playful Trouble

Only use 'imps' when the trouble being caused is relatively harmless. If someone is doing something truly dangerous or mean, 'imps' is too soft a word.

Learn the Adjective

The adjective 'impish' is actually more common in formal writing than the noun 'imps.' Use 'an impish grin' to describe someone who looks like they have a secret.

Fantasy Context

If you are playing a fantasy game or reading a fantasy book, expect 'imps' to be literal monsters. In any other context, they are likely children.

The 'MP' Sound

Practice the transition from 'm' to 'p.' Close your lips for the 'm' and then pop them open for the 'p' without letting any air out in between.

Avoid Overuse

Because 'imps' is a very colorful word, using it too many times in one story can make the writing feel a bit childish. Use it once for effect.

Affectionate Scolding

When you call a child an 'imp,' it's a way of saying 'I see you are being naughty, but I still love you.' It's a very useful tool for parents.

Countable Noun

Remember that 'imps' is countable. You can have one imp, two imps, or a hundred imps. It follows all the normal rules for plural nouns.

Technical Problems

You can use 'imps in the machine' to describe small, annoying computer bugs. It makes the problem sound less frustrating and more like a funny story.

The Lincoln Imp

If you ever visit England, look for the Lincoln Imp in the cathedral. It's a great real-world example of how this word is part of history.

Imps vs. Monsters

Use 'monsters' for big messes or loud noise. Use 'imps' for clever tricks, like hiding things or telling small lies.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of an 'Imp' as a 'mischievous Impossible Person.' They are small, but they make things difficult!

Associação visual

Imagine a tiny red creature with a long tail trying to tie your shoelaces together while you aren't looking.

Word Web

Mischief Small Demon Child Playful Naughty Trickster Folklore

Desafio

Try to use the word 'imps' three times today: once to describe a pet, once to describe a child, and once to describe a small problem you have.

Origem da palavra

The word 'imp' comes from the Old English 'impa' or 'impe,' which meant a young shoot or a graft of a plant. This comes from the Latin 'imputare,' meaning to graft. In the 14th century, it began to be used to mean 'child' or 'offspring,' as children were seen as 'shoots' of their parents. By the 16th century, the meaning shifted toward 'offspring of the devil,' leading to the modern sense of a small demon.

Significado original: A young shoot or graft of a plant.

Germanic (Old English) with Latin roots.

Contexto cultural

Generally safe to use, but avoid using it to describe children you don't know well, as some parents might find it slightly insulting if they don't understand the playful context.

In the UK, 'imp' is often used by grandparents to describe their grandchildren. In the US, it is slightly less common but still widely understood.

The Lincoln Imp (Lincoln Cathedral) The Imp of the Perverse (Edgar Allan Poe) Tyrion Lannister (often called 'The Imp' in Game of Thrones)

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Parenting

Little imps
Stop being an imp
My little imp
A house full of imps

Fantasy Gaming

Summon an imp
Imp swarm
Fire-breathing imp
Kill the imps

Literature

The imp of the perverse
Impish grin
Folklore imps
Attendant imps

History/Architecture

The Lincoln Imp
Stone imps
Cathedral imps
Medieval imps

Describing Personality

Impish charm
An impish sense of humor
Acting like an imp
A bit of an imp

Iniciadores de conversa

"Were you a little imp when you were a child, or were you very well-behaved?"

"Do you like fantasy movies that feature creatures like imps and goblins?"

"Have you ever felt the 'imp of the perverse'—the urge to do something just because you shouldn't?"

"If you had to describe your pets as imps or angels, which would you choose?"

"What is the most 'impish' thing you have ever seen a child do?"

Temas para diário

Describe a time when you acted like a little imp. What did you do, and how did people react?

Write a short story about a group of imps living in a modern-day office building.

Compare the word 'imps' with 'monsters.' When is one more appropriate than the other for describing children?

Think about a fictional character you like. Do they have any impish qualities? Explain.

If you were a wizard, what kind of tasks would you give to your imps?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, 'imps' is not a bad word or a swear word. While it literally means 'little demons,' it is almost always used in a playful or affectionate way to describe children. However, like any word, it depends on your tone. If you say it with a smile, it's a compliment to the child's energy. If you say it while shouting, it shows you are annoyed.

Yes, but it is usually used for adults who have a very youthful or mischievous personality. You might say an adult has an 'impish' sense of humor. Calling an adult an 'imp' directly is less common than calling a child an 'imp,' but it can be used between close friends as a joke.

In folklore, a demon is a powerful and evil spirit. An imp is a much smaller, less powerful version of a demon. Think of a demon as a boss and an imp as a low-level worker. In modern use, 'demon' is a very serious and negative word, while 'imp' is lighthearted and playful.

It is used in both, but it is slightly more common in British English. In the UK, it has a long history in folklore and is a standard way to describe children. In the US, it is often associated with fantasy movies and books, though many Americans also use it for children.

It is pronounced /ɪmps/. It rhymes with 'shrimps.' Make sure you don't add an extra vowel sound between the 'm' and the 'p.' It is a single, quick syllable.

Yes, the singular is 'imp.' You can say, 'He is a little imp.' However, because mischief often happens in groups, you will hear the plural 'imps' much more frequently.

It comes from an Old English word for a plant graft or a young shoot. It eventually came to mean 'child' and then 'child of the devil.' It's a great example of how a word's meaning can change completely over hundreds of years!

Yes, 'impish' is very common. It is often used to describe a person's smile, grin, or sense of humor. It means that the person looks like they are thinking of a prank or a joke.

Not necessarily. In many modern stories, imps are just annoying or neutral. They might help the hero if they are bored, or they might cause trouble for everyone. They are defined more by their mischief than by a desire to do evil.

Common synonyms include rascals, scamps, rogues, and troublemakers. If you are talking about the mythological creature, you might use goblins or gremlins, though they have slightly different meanings.

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