know-it-all
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A person who behaves as if they know everything and is often annoyingly unwilling to listen to advice or accept information from others.
Usage
This word is used to describe a person whose attitude is characterized by arrogance and an unwarranted display of knowledge. It is typically a critical or pejorative term.
Examples
- She's such a know-it-all that it's impossible to have a discussion with her; she dismisses every point you make.
- Don't be a know-it-all in the meeting. Listen to what the experienced engineers have to say.
- His know-it-all attitude made him very unpopular with his classmates.
Advanced Usage
- The term can function attributively as a compound modifier before a noun (e.g., , ).
- It is often used in direct address or description to express frustration or criticism.
Variants and Related Words
- Smart aleck / Smarty-pants (noun): Informal, slightly more childish synonyms for a know-it-all, often implying cheekiness.
- Pseudointellectual (noun): A person who pretends to be knowledgeable or cultured.
- Pedant (noun): A person who is excessively concerned with minor details and rules, often showing off their book learning.
Synonyms
- Wise guy
- Smart aleck
- Smarty
- Braggart (though this emphasizes boasting more than false knowledge)
Antonyms
- Novice
- Beginner
- Humble person
- Open-minded individual
Idioms and Related Phrases
- To have all the answers: To act as if one knows everything. (e.g., )
- A little knowledge is a dangerous thing: Proverb suggesting that people who know a little often mistakenly believe they know a lot, which can lead to poor decisions. This concept is closely related to the behavior of a know-it-all.
Noun
- someone who thinks he knows everything and refuses to accept advice or information from others