bratty kid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bratty kid" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a child who is behaving in a spoiled or mischievous manner, often in a way that is annoying to others. Example: "The bratty kid in the store was throwing a tantrum because he didn't get the toy he wanted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

To her, I'll always be that bratty kid who couldn't bring himself to make the necessary adjustments.

The New Yorker

This change signifies that Miu Miu is no longer content to be the bratty kid sister of Prada, the elegant snob.

The New York Times

Silas and Shane have to cope with the death of their father and its side effects — one bratty kid calls Shane "orphan boy," and money is so tight that the Botwins' phone gets cut off.

The New Yorker

The captions are troves of film arcana -- for instance, that Dean Riesner, 4 years old in 1923 when he played the bratty kid in a pageboy in "The Pilgrim," later became a screenwriter for Clint Eastwood's "Dirty Harry" pictures.

The New York Times - Books

I thought yes, definitely, because even though it isn't really a tell-all, it is the first big narrative New York media-blogger account by a pretty young woman — instead of tending a bratty kid, like a nanny, or a bratty boss, like a Vogue assistant, this chick tends a blog.

The New Yorker

Helen Penelope Gazin is my bratty kid sister.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

A counterargument was that the police overreacted to tough love for bratty kids.

The New York Times

With few complaints, he has been subjected to offensive coordinators — seven in seven seasons — the way bratty kids bounce through baby sitters.

The New York Times - Sports

While some comedians use elements of mime to add depth to their performances, Bamford puts her gift for mimicry to similar use, evoking a supporting cast of cold-hearted office workers, neurotic parents, bratty kids and over-familiar evangelicals.

The Guardian

Give one to your bratty kids.

TechCrunch

Sure, the SV-2400 announced today by Stealth Computer is "built to withstand the demanding effects of harsh environments typically encountered in industrial plant floor and Human Machine Interface applications," but wouldn't it also stand up to your bratty kids' peanut butter and jelly-covered hands and the generally rambunctious nature of the rumpus room in your finished basement?

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bratty kid", consider the audience and context. While generally understood, it can be perceived as judgmental. Opt for more descriptive terms if neutrality is desired.

Common error

Avoid labeling a child as a "bratty kid" based on isolated incidents. Focus on specific behaviors instead of applying a broad, potentially harmful label.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bratty kid" functions as a descriptive phrase, where "bratty" modifies the noun "kid". Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe a child exhibiting spoiled or mischievous behavior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bratty kid" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe a child exhibiting spoiled or annoying behavior. Ludwig indicates that it is considered correct and usable in written English, although it is more common in informal contexts like News & Media and Wiki articles. When using the phrase, it's important to consider the potential for judgment and choose more descriptive or neutral terms if necessary. Ludwig also provides useful alternatives such as "mischievous child" or "spoiled child".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spoiled brat

Similar meaning but slightly more intense and negative connotation.

spoiled child

Focuses more on the effects of being spoiled rather than just mischievous behavior.

mischievous child

Highlights the playful but potentially troublesome nature of the child.

ill-mannered child

Emphasizes the lack of politeness and good behavior.

badly behaved kid

A more general term for a child with behavioral issues.

undisciplined child

Highlights the lack of proper training and guidance.

obnoxious child

Focuses on the annoying and irritating behavior of the child.

troublesome kid

Emphasizes the problems and difficulties caused by the child.

rowdy child

Focuses on the loud and disruptive behavior.

pesky kid

Emphasizes the irritating and bothersome qualities of the child.

FAQs

How can I use "bratty kid" in a sentence?

You can use "bratty kid" to describe a child who is behaving in a spoiled or annoying manner. For example, "The "bratty kid" was throwing a tantrum in the store."

What's a less judgmental way to describe a "bratty kid"?

Instead of "bratty kid", consider using phrases like "mischievous child", "spoiled child", or "ill-mannered child" depending on the specific behavior you want to describe.

Is "bratty kid" a formal or informal term?

"Bratty kid" is generally considered an informal term. It's best suited for casual conversations or informal writing rather than formal or professional contexts.

What's the difference between a "bratty kid" and a "spoiled brat"?

While both terms describe negative behavior, "spoiled brat" is a stronger and more negative term. A "bratty kid" might just be mischievous or annoying, while a "spoiled brat" is typically seen as entitled and demanding due to excessive pampering.