I hate to brag

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I hate to brag" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express humility or reluctance in talking about one's accomplishments or abilities. Example: "I hate to brag, but I did receive the highest score in the class on the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

In the ad, the house speaks: "I hate to brag, but I know you'll love me...want me" etc.

The New Yorker

I'd developed a comfort with tight quarters, a sixth sense for cheapness and a tolerance for squalor that was (I hate to brag) unequaled.

The New York Times

Q Dear Nigel, My lemon tart – and I hate to brag – tastes great, but why does the filling always craze on cooling?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I had the physical constitution for it, too: I was blessed with a high tolerance for cold temperatures, practically no sense of smell and a bladder (I hate to brag) the size of a football.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

I hate to break it to you.

The New York Times

I hate to lose".

The New York Times

I hate to kill.

The New York Times

I hate to write.

The New Yorker

I hate to listen, I hate the other way.

The New York Times - Arts

"I hate to be aggressive.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I hate to say it".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow the phrase with specific, quantifiable achievements rather than vague statements to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "I hate to brag" in situations where genuine humility is expected. The phrase is often perceived as sarcastic or insincere if the context doesn't align with a lighthearted or slightly boastful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I hate to brag" functions as a pragmatic marker, specifically a disclaimer of boastfulness. It precedes a statement that might be perceived as boastful, signaling the speaker's awareness of this potential perception. Ludwig examples confirm this usage, showing the phrase introducing positive statements about oneself or one's accomplishments.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I hate to brag" is a grammatically correct phrase used to preface a potentially boastful statement with an expression of reluctance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a pragmatic marker to mitigate the social risks associated with bragging. While the phrase is commonly found in news and media, its usage is generally neutral to informal, making it less suitable for strictly formal contexts. When using "I hate to brag", it's important to maintain authenticity and avoid overuse, as excessive use can appear insincere. Consider alternatives like "not to boast" or "if I may say so myself" to vary your language and adapt to different contexts. Therefore, you can use it to sound comical while still appearing humble.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Not to boast, but

Similar in expressing a reluctance to brag, but uses 'boast' instead of 'brag'.

I don't mean to boast, but

Explicitly states the intention to avoid boasting, adding emphasis to the reluctance.

Without wishing to sound boastful

More formal and elaborate way of expressing the same sentiment.

If I may say so myself

Indirectly implies a positive attribute while appearing humble.

It's probably immodest to say, but

Acknowledges the potential for immodesty before making a statement.

I'm not one to sing my own praises, but

Indicates a general aversion to self-praise before proceeding.

Hoping this doesn't sound arrogant

Directly addresses the concern of sounding arrogant.

Pardon my boasting, but

Acknowledges the boastful nature of the upcoming statement and asks for forgiveness.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention

Suggests an obligation to mention something positive, framing it as necessary rather than boastful.

It feels awkward to say this, but

Highlights the speaker's discomfort in making the statement.

FAQs

How can I use "I hate to brag" in a sentence?

You can use "I hate to brag" to introduce a statement that might sound boastful, often to add a touch of humor or irony. For example, "I hate to brag, but I did win the lottery last week."

What's the difference between "I hate to brag" and "I don't mean to brag"?

"I hate to brag" expresses a stronger aversion to bragging, while "I don't mean to brag" simply states a lack of intention to boast. The former can sometimes come across as more sarcastic or self-aware.

What can I say instead of "I hate to brag"?

Alternatives include "not to boast", "if I may say so myself", or "it feels awkward to say this, but" depending on the desired tone and level of formality.

Is it always appropriate to use "I hate to brag"?

No, it's not always appropriate. Avoid using "I hate to brag" in very formal or serious contexts, as it can come across as flippant or insincere. Consider your audience and the overall tone of the conversation.