uppity
/' pi / Cách viết khác : (uppity) /' piti/ (upstage) /' p'steid /
Definition
- Adjective:
- Presumptuously arrogant; behaving as if one is more important or of a higher social status than one actually is: The word describes someone who does not show the expected deference or respect, often in a way that is considered inappropriate or offensive by others, particularly by those in a position of authority or higher social standing. It carries a strong connotation of social transgression.
Usage
- Primary Usage: Used to criticize someone for acting above their perceived station or for being disrespectfully bold. It is often used in informal or colloquial contexts and can have racially charged or classist undertones, as it has historically been used to police the behavior of marginalized groups.
- Tone: The term is generally pejorative and can be considered offensive. It implies that the person being described is "getting too big for their boots."
Examples
Advanced Usage
- Sociolinguistic Note: The term "uppity" has a complex and often problematic history, especially in American English, where it was frequently used to describe Black people who asserted their rights or dignity in the face of systemic racism. Its use today is often criticized for perpetuating these classist and racist power dynamics. Modern usage requires careful consideration of this context.
- In Literature/Media: Often used in dialogue to establish a character's attitude towards social hierarchy or to create tension based on class conflict.
Variants and Related Words
- Uppish (adj, chiefly British): Having a similar meaning to "uppity," suggesting snobbishness or being full of oneself.
- Overweening (adj): Arrogant and overconfident. This is a more formal synonym.
- Presumptuous (adj): Failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate.
Synonyms
- Arrogant
- Haughty
- Snobbish
- Imperious
- Overbearing
Antonyms
- Humble
- Modest
- Deferential
- Subservient
Idioms and Phrases
- To get/grow uppity: To begin acting in an arrogantly self-important manner.
- He started to get uppity after his first promotion.
- To put someone in their place: This is a common reaction to someone perceived as "uppity," meaning to remind them of their lower status (this phrase is listed here as a related concept, not as a variant of "uppity").
- The critic's harsh review was meant to put the uppity young author in his place.
Adjective
-
presumptuously arrogant
-
had a witty but overweening manner
-
no idea how overweening he would be- S.V.Benet
-
getting a little uppity and needed to be slapped down- NY Times
-
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