Meaning of has-been | Babel Free
ˈhæz.biːnDefinitions
A person, especially one who was formerly popular or influential, who continues in their field after their popularity or effectiveness has peaked and is now in decline.
Equivalents
Deutsch
ehemalig
Español
ha-sido
ქართული
ყოფილი
Nederlands
passe
Polski
przebrzmiały
Português
ex-famoso
Svenska
föredetting
Examples
“When the aforesaid alderman or another wishes to express⟳ mild contemptuosity for his fellows and himself in future I would suggest⟳ “old fossils” or “old has beens,” or “old fogies,” then the Sir Galahads that are always riding—or driving—about in this progressive dorp will not have⟳ any cause to complain⟳.”
“I think⟳ Apple Computer is a has-been.”
“Is it better to never be than to be and eventually become⟳ a has-been?”
“They're saying Sonny Hayes isn't a has-been. He's a never-was.”
CEFR level
C2
Mastery
This word is part of the CEFR C2 vocabulary — mastery level.
This word is part of the CEFR C2 vocabulary — mastery level.
See also
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