The spelling of "more yellow bellied" can be confusing due to the pronunciation of "yellow." In IPA phonetics, "yellow" is pronounced as /ˈjɛloʊ/ or "yeh-loh." The "-ow" sound is not present in the pronunciation. Therefore, the correct spelling of the phrase is "more yellow-bellied," with a hyphen between "yellow" and "bellied." This ensures the correct pronunciation of both words in the phrase, which can be heard as /mɔːr ˈjɛloʊ ˈbɛl.id/.
The expression "more yellow-bellied" is a descriptive phrase used to characterize a person who is seen as being more cowardly or lacking courage compared to others. It is derived from the metaphorical idea that a person's belly turns yellow due to fear, much like how one's face might turn pale during moments of intense fright or anxiety. The adjective "yellow-bellied" is often associated with traits such as timidity, spinelessness, or an unwillingness to face challenging or risky situations.
When someone is described as "more yellow-bellied," it implies that they exhibit an even higher degree of cowardice or fearfulness than others. This description can be used in various contexts, such as personal confrontations, professional challenges, or even adventurous pursuits. It suggests that the individual lacks the bravery or fortitude required to confront their fears or take bold action.
The phrase can be used colloquially or metaphorically to emphasize someone's perceived lack of courage, often in an exaggerated manner. However, it is important to remember that the expression "more yellow-bellied" is a figurative term and should not be taken literally, as it does not refer to an actual physical condition or the color of one's belly. Instead, it symbolizes an individual's perceived weakness or timidity in the face of adversity.