know-all

/'nou'ɔ:l/

Thân thiện

A know-all in the meeting dismissed every suggestion with a wave of his hand.

Definition

Noun: A person who behaves as if they know everything and is often annoyingly unwilling to accept advice or information from others; a person who is arrogantly omniscient.

Usage

The word "know-all" is a derogatory term used to describe someone whose behavior is perceived as arrogant and overconfident in their knowledge. It is typically used in informal contexts and carries a negative connotation, implying irritation or disapproval from the speaker.

Examples

• Nobody likes working with him because he's such a know-all.
• She didn't want to ask the question in the meeting, fearing she would sound like a know-all.
• Don't be such a know-all; sometimes it's good to listen to other people's ideas.

Advanced Usage

• "a right know-all": A more emphatic and colloquial form, intensifying the negative judgment.
  • He corrected the teacher three times—he's a right know-all.

Variants and Related Words

• Know-it-all (noun): This is the most common and direct synonym, especially in American English. The meaning is identical.
  • My brother is a real know-it-all when it comes to movies.
• Smart alec (noun, informal): Refers to a person who is annoyingly clever or sarcastic.
• Wise guy (noun, informal): Similar to "smart alec," often implying someone who makes cheeky or insolent remarks.

Synonyms

• Smart aleck
• Wiseacre
• Braggart (though this emphasizes boasting more than actual knowledge)
• Pedant (this emphasizes an excessive concern with minor details and rules)

Antonyms

• Modest person
• Novice
• Learner

Related Idioms

• To be a mine of information: This is a positive idiom for someone who knows a lot and is willing to share, unlike a "know-all."
  • Ask Sarah about local history; she's a mine of information.

Học thuật

Noun

1. someone who thinks he knows everything and refuses to accept advice or information from others

Từ đồng nghĩa

• know-it-all