an impertinence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an impertinence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a remark or action that is rude or disrespectful, often in a context where someone feels offended or slighted. Example: "His comment about my work was nothing short of an impertinence that I couldn't overlook."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Mountains would seem an impertinence from that point of view.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The mountain was making its play, & their continued existence, for the moment, was an impertinence".

The New Yorker

"Every question is an impertinence, an aggression," he declared, with paradoxical warmth.

The New Yorker

The NLD has started to propose bills, something previously viewed as an impertinence for a non-government party to do.

The Economist

It makes any actual music seem an impertinence, an unnatural and unneeded accompaniment to the geological masterpiece that is Assynt.

The Guardian

The Japanese believe their language to be so difficult that it counts as something of an impertinence for a foreigner to speak it.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

By clarifying the neurobiological basis of human judgments on goodness, truth and beauty, Changeux hopes to build a bridge between the humanities and neurobiology, even though he realizes that some will view the project as "an abusive, even an illegitimate impertinence" (Changeux 1997, p. 274).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

You don't like talking about your private life because: a) It is a bloody impertinence to be asked about it, and it's not the interviewer's business.

The Guardian - Film

The students took a reporter to his office, then plopped down at his conference table to quiz him themselves, an unthinkable impertinence not long ago.

The New York Times

"It is an insufferable impertinence of the federal government to ask why I have entertained my guests or why I have chosen to travel — to say nothing of how many times I have been married, whom I have voted for and whether or not I buy my dog a bed".

The New York Times - Books

And this is what Cameron seems to be revealing as the election approaches, a sense that it's a bloody impertinence he should have to take part in the election at all.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an impertinence", ensure that the subject and context clearly establish who is being disrespectful and why their actions are offensive. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "an impertinence" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound unnatural or pretentious in relaxed settings. Opt for simpler terms like "rudeness" or "disrespect" to maintain an appropriate register.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an impertinence" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It labels a specific action or remark as rude and inappropriately bold. Ludwig AI confirms it's correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an impertinence" is a noun phrase denoting a rude and inappropriate act, best suited for formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Its primary function is to express disapproval, frequently appearing in News & Media and Academic sources. While synonyms like "a rudeness" exist, "an impertinence" carries a stronger connotation of overstepping boundaries. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly defines the offensive behavior and maintain a formal tone to avoid misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rudeness

Replaces the more formal "impertinence" with a simpler and more direct term for impolite behavior.

a disrespect

Focuses on the lack of respect shown, rather than the act itself being inappropriate.

an insolence

Suggests a haughty and contemptuous form of disrespect, emphasizing arrogance.

a discourtesy

Highlights the lack of polite behavior or consideration.

a brazen act

Emphasizes the boldness and shamelessness of the inappropriate action.

an effrontery

Implies extreme impudence and audacity, suggesting a shocking level of disrespect.

a piece of impudence

Breaks down "impertinence" into a more descriptive phrase, highlighting the specific instance of rude behavior.

an act of disrespect

More explicitly describes the action as disrespectful, making the meaning clearer.

a presumptuous act

Focuses on the boldness and unwarranted assumption underlying the inappropriate action.

a liberty

Suggests that someone has overstepped their bounds and acted inappropriately.

FAQs

How can I use "an impertinence" in a sentence?

You can use "an impertinence" to describe a remark or action considered rude and inappropriate. For instance, "His comment about my qualifications was nothing short of an impertinence." It is typically used in formal contexts.

What words are similar to "an impertinence"?

Similar words include "a rudeness", "a disrespect", or "an insolence", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. "Insolence" suggests arrogance, while "rudeness" is more general.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an impertinence"?

The phrase "an impertinence" is appropriate in formal writing and speech when you want to emphasize the rudeness and inappropriateness of a particular action or statement. It's stronger than simply calling something "rude".

Is "an impertinence" the same as "impudence"?

While similar, "impertinence" often implies a lack of respect for social boundaries or hierarchy, whereas "impudence" can also suggest a cheeky or playful defiance, though still inappropriate. Both imply rudeness, but "impertinence" can carry a stronger connotation of overstepping one's place.