Bugaboo

usgb/ˈbʌɡəbuː/
noun

Something that you are afraid of or a problem you worry about that is perhaps imaginary.

Don't let the potential difficulties become a bugaboo.
Visual representation of "bugaboo" - Something that you are afraid of or a problem you worry about that is perhaps imaginary

Often appears as...

  • face your bugaboo
  • don't be a bugaboo

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "bugaboo"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Imaginary Fears

Use 'bugaboo' to express a fear or worry that might not even be real.

Illustration for Imaginary Fears
I realized that the ghost stories were just a bugaboo.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Psychological Barriers

In personal growth, 'bugaboo' can symbolize non-physical obstacles you want to conquer.

Illustration for Psychological Barriers
Public speaking used to be my bugaboo, but not anymore.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Colloquial Nuance

'Bugaboo' is casual, suited for everyday conversations, not formal documents.

Illustration for Colloquial Nuance
Let's not turn this issue into a bugaboo; it's solvable.
Visual representation of the word "Bugaboo"

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