What does “Against your better judgment” mean?

"Against your better judgment" means doing something even though you know it's not the smartest or wisest decision.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I decided to go on a road trip, against my better judgment.

Example

He took the job offer against his better judgment and ended up regretting it.

Example

She agreed to lend him money against her better judgment, knowing he might not pay it back

Is “Against your better judgment” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Against your better judgment” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Against your better judgment” effectively in context?

You can use "Against your better judgment" to describe a situation where someone does something even though they know it's not the smartest or wisest decision. It emphasizes the conflict between what someone knows is right and what they actually choose to do. For example, if a friend decides to go on a trip with unreliable transportation, you might say, 'She decided to go on a road trip, "against her better judgment".'

1Personal Choices
Despite knowing it was a risky investment, he put all his savings into the stock market against his better judgment.
2Relationships
She agreed to give her ex another chance against her better judgment, even though she knew it might lead to heartbreak.
3Career Decisions
He accepted a job offer in a different city against his better judgment, knowing it would be difficult to adjust to the new environment.

Similar phrases to “Against your better judgment”:

Go against your instincts

To act in a way that contradicts your natural intuition or gut feeling

Example

She decided to go against her instincts and trust the stranger.

Act against your better judgment

To make a decision that you know is not wise or smart

Example

He acted against his better judgment and joined the risky business venture.

Ignore your better judgment

To disregard what you know is the right or wise decision

Example

She ignored her better judgment and went ahead with the impulsive purchase.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Against your better judgment” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Against your better judgment" is unknown.

Is “Against your better judgment” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Against your better judgment" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they or others make decisions that they know are not wise or smart.

What tone does “Against your better judgment” have?

"Against your better judgment" conveys a tone of self-awareness and regret. It implies that the person making the decision is aware that it may not be the best choice but is still choosing to proceed.

Can “Against your better judgment” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Against your better judgment" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes the conflict between what someone knows is right and what they choose to do. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He took the job offer "against his better judgment".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I did it "against my better judgment"!' to express regret or self-awareness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

despite knowing better
against your own advice
contrary to your better judgment
in defiance of your better judgment
going against your better sense

Antonyms

in line with your better judgment
following your instincts
making a wise decision
acting on sound judgment
choosing the smarter option