thầy bà
Definition
- Noun (derogatory, slang):
- A self-important person; a know-it-all: Used to refer to someone who acts as if they are a master or expert, often with a negative connotation of arrogance or undeserved authority.
- A (certain) type of master: Used ironically or sarcastically to label someone who pretentiously assumes the role of a teacher or boss.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Đồng nghiệp đó lúc nào cũng tỏ ra là thầy bà, chỉ đạo người khác. (That colleague always acts like a know-it-all, directing others.)
- Hắn tự xưng là thầy bà trong lĩnh vực này, nhưng thực ra chẳng biết gì. (He proclaims himself a master in this field, but actually knows nothing.)
Advanced Usage
- The term is almost exclusively used in a critical or mocking context. It implies that the person's claim to expertise or authority is false, exaggerated, or irritating.
Word Origin and Notes
- The term is a compound of "thầy" (teacher, master) and "bà" (madam, lady). When combined, it takes on a sarcastic and pejorative meaning, stripping away the respect normally associated with the individual words. It critiques performative or unqualified authority.
Synonyms
- Know-it-all: a person who behaves as if they know everything.
- Pseudo-expert: a person who falsely claims to be an expert.
- Windbag (informal): a person who talks a lot but says little of value.
Related Idioms/Expressions
- Làm ra vẻ thầy bà: to put on airs of being a master; to act high and mighty.
- Anh ta chẳng có chuyên môn, chỉ làm ra vẻ thầy bà thôi. (He has no expertise, he just puts on airs of being a master.)