act of arrogance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "act of arrogance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a behavior or action that demonstrates a lack of humility or an overestimation of one's own importance. Example: "His refusal to listen to others was seen as an act of arrogance that alienated his colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

It is a heretical act of arrogance to arrogate divinity for oneself or to claim multiple incarnations.

The New York Times

It was an act of arrogance he regretted, he said later.

The New York Times

A similar act of arrogance at a local hangout with Min's friends leaves them dumbfounded and him genially oblivious.

The New York Times - Books

He is a bit of a smart aleck, but his reclusiveness is hardly an act of arrogance.

The New York Times - Magazine

But, she wonders, isn't this humility really an act of arrogance, since it is, after all, aspirational?

The New Yorker

It clearly represents Barker's own complex feelings about the perils of large-scale commissions and his entrenched belief that all creativity is "an act of arrogance".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

I want to believe that President Obama's speech omissions were oversights, not acts of arrogance.

The New York Times

Not surprisingly, the campaign is winning high marks from a citizenry long disgusted by the outlandish spending and other acts of arrogance.

The New York Times

Mr. Boehner called Mr. Reid's move "an act of breathtaking arrogance".

The New York Times

For others, though, the high-stakes return is an act of characteristic arrogance — a rash impulse born out of some sense of messianic destiny.

The New York Times

It is an act of supreme arrogance for Mr. Nader to consign the country to bad policies for some imagined ideological payoff down the road.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "act of arrogance", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Is it about defiance (hubris), unwarranted entitlement (presumption), or excessive self-belief (conceit)? Choose the most fitting synonym for greater precision.

Common error

Be mindful of the context. A confident action, while bold, isn't necessarily an "act of arrogance". Ensure there's a clear element of disrespect, disregard for others, or unjustified self-importance before using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act of arrogance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a particular action or behavior characterized by excessive pride and a disregard for others. Ludwig shows examples of this usage in news and opinion pieces.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "act of arrogance" is a noun phrase used to describe a specific instance of behavior marked by excessive pride and disregard for others. Grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media, as validated by Ludwig. It serves to express disapproval or criticism. While suitable for various contexts, it maintains a neutral register. Ludwig's AI confirms that the phrase is appropriate and provides valuable context for its usage. Related phrases, such as "display of hubris" or "show of presumption", offer alternative ways to express similar sentiments with varying nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display of hubris

Focuses on the pride and defiance aspect, often implying a challenge to fate or higher powers.

show of presumption

Emphasizes the boldness and unwarranted assumption of privilege or entitlement.

exhibition of conceit

Highlights the excessive belief in one's own abilities or worth.

demonstration of haughtiness

Conveys a sense of disdain and superiority over others.

instance of overbearing behavior

Shifts the focus to the oppressive and domineering nature of the action.

exercise in self-importance

Underscores the self-centered motivation behind the act.

manifestation of superiority

Highlights the belief in being better or more important than others.

expression of disdain

Focuses on the contemptuous and dismissive attitude conveyed.

case of unwarranted pride

Emphasizes that the pride is unjustified and excessive.

outburst of inflated ego

Refers to a sudden and intense display of self-admiration.

FAQs

How can I use "act of arrogance" in a sentence?

You can use "act of arrogance" to describe a specific action or behavior that demonstrates excessive pride or disrespect. For example, "His refusal to apologize was seen as an "act of arrogance"".

What are some alternatives to "act of arrogance"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "display of hubris", "show of presumption", or "exhibition of conceit".

Is "act of arrogance" a formal or informal phrase?

"Act of arrogance" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it appears more frequently in news and media. The formality depends on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "act of arrogance" and "arrogant behavior"?

"Act of arrogance" refers to a specific instance or action, while "arrogant behavior" describes a general pattern or tendency. For example, you might say, "That statement was an "act of arrogance"," or "His arrogant behavior alienated many colleagues."