smacks of arrogance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smacks of arrogance" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe an attitude or behavior that is perceived as overly proud and superior. For example, "His response to my suggestion smacked of arrogance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"Just to say we know more than you, that smacks of arrogance".

The New York Times

The local pastime of "Spot the Mainlander" has long been an amusing diversion in Hong Kong, although it often smacks of arrogance or chauvinism.

The New York Times

From the GOP's perspective, Obama's decision to plough ahead with executive action, ignoring the Democratic defeats at the midterm elections, smacks of arrogance.

The Guardian

Colin Powell, the secretary of state, has expressed "regret" at the loss of the pilot's life, but has offered no apology.To Chinese ears, the American stance smacks of arrogance and insensitivity.

The Economist

It smacks of arrogance, which was precisely Pettersen's demeanour in the immediate aftermath of the event when she could not have been more dismissive of suggestions she had acted inappropriately.

The Guardian - Sport

Ailing premier, rocky government Romano Prodi, a desperate integrationist Reprints Related items Lexington: Reaching out to VladimirMay 23rd 2002 Global politics: Partners, not strangersMay 23rd 2002To many Europeans, all this smacks of arrogance, at a time when Europe is worrying about its own relevance in the world.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It smacked of arrogance.

The Guardian - Sport

Daddy!" to his napping Israeli expatriate father, who finally awakens when the child switches to Hebrew: "Abba!" For many American Jews, the Israeli government-sponsored ads, intended to cajole Israelis living in the United States to come home, smacked of arrogance, ignorance and cultural disrespect of America.

The New York Times

Mr. McConnell said, though, that the Democratic victories would come at a price, predicting that the party's decision to push sweeping measures in the face of public opposition smacked of arrogance and "is sowing the seeds of their potential downfall".

The New York Times

His lack of curiosity was stunning, and his failure to consider travel a prerequisite to negotiating his country's place in a larger world smacked of arrogance and incompetence: the very characteristics that led him to launch a thankless conflict in Iraq that in turn created a Middle East tragedy without surcease.

The Guardian - Books

I think that smacks of an arrogance that the people of Wales simply will not tolerate.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "smacks of arrogance", ensure that the context clearly supports the perception of arrogance. Avoid using it for actions that could be interpreted in multiple ways.

Common error

While "smacks of arrogance" is acceptable in neutral and formal writing, avoid overusing it in informal conversations, as it can sound overly critical or judgmental. Simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smacks of arrogance" functions as a subject complement or adjectival modifier. It describes a quality or characteristic perceived in an action, statement, or situation. It indicates that something gives the impression of being arrogant, even if it isn't explicitly stated. Ludwig confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smacks of arrogance" is a phrase used to express disapproval of something that appears to be arrogant. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, as also pointed out by Ludwig. While not overly formal, it's best suited for neutral and professional communication. When considering alternative phrases, remember that options like "reeks of conceit" or "hints at hubris" can be chosen based on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reeks of conceit

Replaces "arrogance" with "conceit" and "smacks" with "reeks", intensifying the negative impression.

hints at hubris

Substitutes "arrogance" with "hubris" which implies excessive pride or self-confidence.

suggests pomposity

Replaces "arrogance" with "pomposity", emphasizing an ostentatious display of self-importance.

borders on presumptuousness

Indicates that the action or statement is close to being overly bold or confident.

carries an air of superiority

Focuses on the impression of being better than others that the action or statement creates.

exudes a sense of entitlement

Highlights the perceived belief that one deserves special treatment.

displays an overbearing attitude

Focuses on the domineering and oppressive nature of the behavior.

manifests as haughtiness

Highlights the scornful and disdainful nature of the action or statement.

intimates a self-satisfied demeanor

Emphasizes the smug and complacent appearance conveyed.

has the tang of condescension

Replaces "arrogance" with "condescension" which means showing patronizingly superior.

FAQs

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

You can use "smacks of arrogance" to describe actions or statements that appear excessively proud or superior. For example, "His refusal to consider other opinions "smacks of arrogance"."

What are some alternatives to saying "smacks of arrogance"?

Alternatives include "reeks of conceit", "hints at hubris", or "suggests pomposity" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "smacks of arrogance" a formal or informal expression?

"Smacks of arrogance" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal expression, suitable for news articles, essays, and business communication, but less common in casual conversation.

What's the difference between "smacks of arrogance" and "is arrogant"?

"Smacks of arrogance" implies an appearance or suggestion of arrogance, while "is arrogant" is a direct statement about someone's character. The former is less direct and can be used when you want to express a perception without making a definitive judgment. Consider also that alternatives like "carries an air of superiority" are valid substitutions.