brat

USAGE SUMMARY

The word “brat” is correct and completely usable in written English.
You can use this word to refer to someone who behaves badly, especially a child. For example, “My niece is such a brat; she never follows the rules!”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

A wise woman once said, "Stanley Tucci is a brat".

The Guardian

In the course of their exchanges, Rudin called Angelina Jolie "a minimally talented spoiled brat" with a "rampaging ego".

The Guardian - Film

If I do, then if I say or do something stupid, there is glee and sarcasm: "And you're a member of Mensa?" At primary school I was fast-tracked a couple of years, which seemed like fun, until I ended up as a 12-year-old brat in a class of cool teenagers, who ignored or bullied me.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

With strong support from business groups – which back Republlican leaders on immigration reform – Cantor used his substantial funding advantage to run aggressive attack ads against the relatively unknown Brat.

The Guardian

Some felt it was the most likable she had ever been while others believed it to be evidence that she was nothing but a spoilt brat.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Beat on the brat with a baseball bat, oh yeah," they sang cheerfully on their debut album.This back-to-basics approach never translated into commercial success.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

His all-too-short killing spree and weird little bromance with man-brat Dandy (deliciously petulant newcomer Finn Wittrock) were the high-water marks of the series so far.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In London she saw the "brat-pack" sort of art in "Sensation" (Royal Academy until December 28th) and found it, people say, obscene and commercial".Sensation" is carnal, painful and "in your face".

The Economist

If you wanted to be very cynical, you could see the same "insurgency" scheme at work with the other big name that's called for Boehner's ouster – David Brat, the freshmen House member and former economics professor who unseated Eric Cantor.

The Guardian - Opinion

David Brat claims that establishment conservatives like Boehner have no real answers; angry conservatives send money to more angry conservative groups determined to do something with extra exclamation points.

The Guardian - Opinion

David Brat, an economics professor at a local college, beat Cantor for the Republican nomination in Virginia's seventh congressional district on Tuesday.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the word "brat", consider the context and audience to ensure it's appropriate, as it can be perceived as pejorative. Use it to convey a sense of mischievousness or spoiled behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "brat" as a generic insult; instead, specify the problematic behavior. For example, instead of saying "He's such a brat", try "He's being inconsiderate and demanding".

Linguistic Context

The word "brat" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a child, especially one considered mischievous, unruly, spoiled, or selfish. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts. The word can also refer to other, less common things, as seen in the dictionary.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "brat" is a commonly used noun, as stated by Ludwig AI, primarily referring to a mischievous, unruly, or spoiled child. Its usage is mostly found in informal contexts like news and media, often to express disapproval. While grammatically correct, it's essential to consider the audience and context when using "brat", as it can be considered a pejorative. Alternatives like "spoiled child" or "unruly kid" can provide a more nuanced description. As confirmed by Ludwig, "brat" serves to label and negatively characterize someone's actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spoiled child

Emphasizes the upbringing and its effect on the child's behavior.

mischievous child

Highlights the troublesome nature of the child's actions.

unruly kid

Focuses on the lack of discipline and control.

holy terror

An informal idiom referring to a child that causes disruption and trouble

problem child

Indicates that the child presents challenges or difficulties.

ill-mannered youngster

Stresses the lack of etiquette and politeness.

rude child

Highlights the child's impolite and disrespectful behaviour.

undisciplined youth

Underlines the absence of proper training and guidance.

impudent child

Focuses on the child's bold and disrespectful behavior.

obnoxious kid

Emphasizes the unpleasant and irritating nature of the child.

FAQs

How can I describe someone similar to a "brat" without using the word itself?

You can use alternatives like "spoiled child", "mischievous child", or "unruly kid" depending on the specific behavior you want to highlight.

Is it appropriate to call an adult a "brat"?

While "brat" typically refers to a child, it can be used to describe an adult who exhibits similarly immature, selfish, or demanding behavior. However, consider the context and audience, as it can be seen as offensive.

What's the origin of the word "brat"?

The word "brat" originally referred to a child, often in a negative or derogatory way, particularly describing one who is mischievous or spoiled. Its usage has evolved over time, but the core meaning remains consistent.

How to use "brat" in a sentence?

You can use "brat" in a sentence like "The little brat threw a tantrum in the store" or "He's acting like a spoiled brat". It's often used to express disapproval or annoyance with someone's behavior.