know-it-all

USAGE SUMMARY

'know-it-all' is a correct and commonly used term in written English.
It is often used to describe someone who claims to know everything and is overly confident in their knowledge and opinions. Example: Sarah's classmates often viewed her as a know-it-all because she always had an answer for every question in class, even if it wasn't always correct.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

EDWARD SNOWDEN: Know-it-all.

The New Yorker

Being a know-it-all.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

BRIAN WILLIAMS: Know-it-all?

The New Yorker

Acts like a know-it-all?

Harvard Business Review

Einstein wasn't a know-it-all.

The Washington Post

He is not a know-it-all.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Do we know it all in detail?

Independent

I don't know it all.

The Guardian - Sport

Didn't we know it all along?

Stanford University

I don't have to know it all.

The New York Times

Now they know it all too well.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "know-it-all" to describe someone who not only possesses extensive knowledge but also displays it in an arrogant or condescending manner. Context is key; ensure the situation warrants the negative connotation.

Common error

Avoid labeling someone a "know-it-all" simply because they are knowledgeable or skilled. The term carries a strong negative connotation, reserved for those who flaunt their knowledge in an obnoxious way.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "know-it-all" functions primarily as a noun, often used to describe a person who is perceived as obnoxiously self-assured in their knowledge. As Ludwig AI shows, it always carries a negative connotation and it is used to label someone.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

35%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "know-it-all" is a common noun phrase used to describe someone who displays their knowledge in an arrogant or condescending way. Ludwig AI confirms that it always carries a negative connotation. It is grammatically correct and frequently found in news, media, and informal contexts, as highlighted by the example sentences. While there are several alternative phrases, such as "smart aleck" and "Mr. Smarty Pants", it's crucial to use "know-it-all" judiciously, reserving it for situations where the individual's behavior is genuinely obnoxious rather than simply knowledgeable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectual showoff

Directly implies someone who displays their intelligence in an ostentatious manner.

Mr. Smarty Pants

A sarcastic term for someone who thinks they are very intelligent and likes to show it.

smarty

A shortened, more direct version of "Mr. Smarty Pants", implying arrogance.

smart aleck

Implies a degree of arrogance and a tendency to show off intelligence.

wise guy

Suggests someone who is being deliberately cheeky or sarcastic, often showing off.

clever clogs

A mostly British term for someone who is irritatingly smart or proud of their intelligence.

walking encyclopedia

Describes someone with a vast amount of knowledge, sometimes implying they are showing off.

brainiac

An informal term for a very intelligent person, often with a negative connotation if overbearing.

egghead

An older, somewhat derogatory term for an intellectual or academic.

pompous ass

Someone who is pretentiously self-important

FAQs

How can I use "know-it-all" in a sentence?

You can use "know-it-all" to describe someone who acts as if they know everything and enjoys correcting others. For example, "My brother is such a "know-it-all"; he always has to be right."

What are some alternative phrases for "know-it-all"?

Alternatives include "smart aleck", "wise guy", or "Mr. Smarty Pants". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to call someone a "know-it-all"?

Yes, the term "know-it-all" is almost always negative. It implies that the person is not only knowledgeable but also arrogant and unpleasant to be around. There is no positive connotation.

What's the difference between being knowledgeable and being a "know-it-all"?

The difference lies in the attitude and behavior. A knowledgeable person shares information willingly and respectfully, while a "know-it-all" insists on being right, corrects others unnecessarily, and often comes across as condescending.