Words / C1

WIM/wɪm/

A whim is a sudden wish or idea, often not reasonable: on a whim, a chair’s whim. Caprice is the close twin; a protocol is a named rule. Occupancy is a figure, not a mood.

Meaning

A sudden wish or idea, often not reasonable.

Examples

• “A chair’s whim is not a fire-occupancy waiver.”
• “Caprice is the close twin. Impulse is everyday. A mood is a feeling. A cap is a certificate. Keep the figure; save the whim for the biscuits.”

Good to know

A sudden, unreasoned wish. Close: caprice. A mood ≠ a waiver.

Near in meaning

caprice

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