The phrase "the cold shoulders" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ðə kəʊld ˈʃəʊldəz/. The first word, "the," is pronounced as /ðə/. The second word, "cold," is pronounced as /kəʊld/. The final word, "shoulders," is pronounced as /ˈʃəʊldəz/. The spelling of this phrase follows the standard English spelling conventions and is pronounced as it is spelled. "The cold shoulders" is a phrase that means to be ignored or rejected by someone, typically in a rude or dismissive manner.
"The cold shoulders" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a deliberate act of indifference, aloofness, or avoidance towards someone. It is often used in situations where someone intentionally ignores or snubs another person, failing to give them the attention or recognition they desire or expect.
The phrase derives from the physical action of turning one's shoulder to someone as a signal of disinterest or dismissal. Just as the actual act of turning away from someone indicates a lack of engagement or interest in their presence, giving someone the cold shoulders refers to treating them with a similar disregard.
The term can be used to describe various scenarios, ranging from personal relationships to professional settings. Someone may receive the cold shoulders after displaying rude behavior, breaking trust, or failing to meet expectations. It could also be a reaction to an argument, disagreement, or simply a personal grudge.
When someone is given the cold shoulders, they may feel excluded, rejected, or hurt due to the deliberate act of being ignored or avoided. It can create a sense of isolation and often invites negative emotions like sadness, frustration, or resentment.
Overall, "the cold shoulders" is a metaphorical expression that signifies the act of deliberately dismissing or ignoring someone, resulting in feelings of exclusion or hurt on the receiving end.