What does “Know it all” mean?
The phrase "know it all" means someone who is excessively confident or arrogant in their knowledge or abilities. When someone is called a "know it all", it is usually a criticism of their tendency to assert their opinions or knowledge without any room for doubt or alternative perspectives.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
He's such a know-it-all, always correcting everyone's grammar.
Example
She acts like a know-it-all and never listens to others' opinions.
Example
Don't be such a know-it-all, nobody likes a show-off.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing someone who corrects others or acts superior
He's such a know-it-all, always correcting everyone's grammar.
She acts like a know-it-all and never listens to others' opinions.
- 2Expressing annoyance or disapproval towards someone's behavior
Don't be such a know-it-all, nobody likes a show-off.
She always acts like a know-it-all and it's really irritating.
- 3Contrasting with humility or ignorance
He's the opposite of a know-it-all, always willing to learn from others.
I prefer people who are humble and open-minded, not know-it-alls.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "know-it-all" is a colloquial expression that has been in use for many years. It is derived from the idea of someone who believes they have superior knowledge or expertise in various subjects.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "know-it-all" is typically used within a sentence to describe someone's behavior. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "know-it-all" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to describe someone who is overconfident or acts like they know everything.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "know-it-all" is commonly used by people of all ages to describe someone who exhibits overconfidence or arrogance. It can be understood by anyone familiar with the concept of someone who thinks they know everything.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "know-it-all" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is used in English-speaking regions worldwide.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- show-off
- smart aleck
- know-all
- wise guy
- smarty-pants
Antonyms
- humble
- modest
- unassuming
- humble pie
- ignorant
