Wanton woman/ A piece of your mind

Yuthana Yomlamai

Traditionally, women are expected not to openly show interest in the opposite sex; any woman who does not keep her feelings for men modest is called "a wanton woman". It is an old-fashioned expression that shows the negative attitude of the speaker towards a particular female.

But when used to describe a person, "wanton" describes someone who is playful and slightly strange in their behaviour; it is used more in literary work than in everyday language, though.

"Look! What is Jack trying to do?"—

"Maybe he's in one of his wanton moods

again."

Another meaning for "wanton" is when it is used to describe an action. A wanton action intentionally causes damage, harm or waste without any reason.

Society will make him pay for his rash and wanton revenge.

In this sense, we can also use "wanton" to describe a person.

The law will punish the wanton arsonists.

I have a question. I was telling my friend about somebody I know who has always been very selfish. My friend said: "You should have given her a piece of your mind." What did she mean? Thank you very much for your time.

Supavadee Supsinmunkong

When you give someone a piece of your mind you tell the person what you really think of their behaviour; and of course it is not behaviour you appreciate.

So don't use the expression with someone you have no problem with.

From your explanation your friend was telling you to tell that person exactly what you think of her.