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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
Teacher's pet
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesAlternative expressions(20)
fair-haired boy
teacher's pet
top student
model student
high-achieving student
excellent student
High-achieving student
Gifted student
considerable student
substantial student
notable student
graduate student
distinguished student
top graduate
distinguished graduate
exemplary student
ideal student
outstanding student
a blue-eyed boy
Beneficiary
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
"Teacher's pet," Mr. Holland jeered.
News & Media
Teacher's pet stopped after the 5th grade.
News & Media
It's not good to be the teacher's pet with all your classmates hating you.
Wiki
You should have straight A's on your report card and be a teacher's pet.
Wiki
That day, she became the teacher's pet.
News & Media
Tarzan – Gabon 98. Teacher's Pet – Florida 99.
News & Media
His classmates hated him because he was teacher's pet.
News & Media
"Disney's Teacher's Pet" is rated PG (Parental guidance suggested).
News & Media
He claims I was the quintessential teacher's pet.
News & Media
I was the naughty one, and she was the teacher's pet.
News & Media
"Disney's Teacher's Pet" will reward your close attention with a gratifyingly high ratio of humor.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "Teacher's pet", be mindful of the negative connotations it often carries. It suggests not just being favored, but also potentially disliked by peers for that reason.
Common error
Avoid using "Teacher's pet" in formal contexts where a neutral term like "high-achieving student" or "model student" would be more appropriate. The idiom carries a degree of informality and can be perceived negatively.
Source & Trust
76%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "Teacher's pet" functions as a noun, specifically a common noun, referring to a particular type of student. As Ludwig shows, it's often used in contexts where favoritism and its social consequences are discussed.
Frequent in
News & Media
54%
Wiki
39%
Formal & Business
7%
Less common in
Science
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "Teacher's pet" is a common idiom referring to a student perceived as favored by a teacher, often with negative social implications. Ludwig AI analysis shows that while grammatically correct, its use requires careful consideration of context due to its informal and potentially judgmental nature. While the phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, and Wiki sources, its usage varies across registers. When writing, be aware of the connotations and consider more neutral alternatives if formality is required.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
The teacher's favorite
A more straightforward way of expressing the same concept.
Favorite student
Focuses on the student being liked the most without necessarily implying negative feelings from others.
Blue-eyed boy
An idiom with a similar meaning, applicable in contexts beyond just a classroom.
Fair-haired boy
Similar to 'blue-eyed boy', carrying the connotation of being favored and privileged.
Golden child
Highlights the person's privileged position and the high expectations placed upon them.
Apple polisher
Implies the student is trying to gain favor through flattery or gifts.
Model student
Focuses on the student's exemplary behavior and academic performance without necessarily implying favoritism.
Brown-noser
A more negative term suggesting the person is excessively flattering to gain favor.
Yes-man
Refers to someone who always agrees with authority figures, often to gain favor.
The chosen one
A hyperbolic term emphasizing the special treatment received.
FAQs
What does the phrase "Teacher's pet" mean?
The phrase "Teacher's pet" refers to a student who is perceived to be favored by a teacher, often leading to resentment from other students.
What are some synonyms for "Teacher's pet"?
Synonyms for "Teacher's pet" include "favorite student", "blue-eyed boy", and "apple polisher", although the connotations may vary.
Is it good to be a "Teacher's pet"?
While being recognized and appreciated by a teacher can be beneficial, being perceived as a "Teacher's pet" can lead to social isolation and resentment from classmates. Maintaining a balance is key.
How can I avoid being labeled as the "Teacher's pet"?
Focus on genuine engagement with the subject matter and respectful interaction with the teacher without seeking excessive attention or special treatment. Collaborate with classmates and avoid behaviors that could be seen as overtly seeking favor.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
76%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested