snobbish

USAGE SUMMARY

'snobbish' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is arrogant and snobbish in attitude and behaviour, often because of their wealth or social status. For example: "He was so snobbish he wouldn't even acknowledge people of lower social standing than himself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On the other hand, John Prescott - feeling understandably bitter at the treatment that he has received from a snobbish press - has spoken about "putting the record straight".

The Guardian - Opinion

It was an improbable love affair, so saccharine and brazenly put on show that it made snobbish Paris high society reach for the sick bag and embarrassed one of France's biggest media and arms conglomerates.

The Guardian

Quite simply, we're snobbish, class-obsessed power-hungry alcoholics.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Brittain was bored out of her mind during her girlhood in the beautiful but snobbish and conservative environs of Buxton.

The Guardian - Film

It may seem snobbish to point all this out.

The Guardian - Opinion

Her mother, Carole, was formerly a British Airways flight attendant – hence the snobbish jibes of some royal hangers-on about "doors to manual" – and her father, Michael, also once worked for BA as a dispatcher, making sure flights left on time and with the correct cargo.

The Guardian

Thus a snobbish dowager in "Downton Abbey", acidly inquiring: "What is a weekend?"Responding on March 21st to the government's annual budget statement, Ed Miliband, the leader of the Labour opposition, tried a similarly class-based put-down.

The Economist

She comes across as insecure and jealous; he is snobbish, mocking the "toothless" poor, and erratic.

The Economist

But even snobbish aristos have been known to ride bicycles; and "playing sports" is not necessarily proof of good character.Still, while Mr Echikson does not disguise his likes and dislikes, he is also too honest a reporter to leave out difficult facts and dissenting opinions.

The Economist

His argument, in essence, is that the most famous chateaux of Bordeaux, based mainly on the left bank of the Gironde river, are often complacent and snobbish traditionalists who trade off their names.

The Economist

Slovenia brings to the EU unique knowledge of the region (though some in the Balkans find Slovenes snobbish).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "snobbish" to specifically denote an attitude of looking down on others due to perceived social or intellectual inferiority. Ensure the context clearly indicates this sense of superiority to avoid misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "snobbish" in casual conversation where a lighter term like "picky" or "particular" might be more appropriate. "Snobbish" carries a strong negative connotation and is best reserved for situations where genuine social or intellectual arrogance is evident.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "snobbish" primarily functions to describe a person or entity exhibiting characteristics of a snob. This includes behaviors and attitudes that suggest a sense of superiority and disdain for those considered to be of lower status. Ludwig AI identifies this as a correct usage, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Academia

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "snobbish" describes someone who believes they are superior to others, often due to social status, wealth, or intellect. It carries a negative connotation and implies disdain for those deemed inferior. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, and examples show its prevalence in News & Media, Encyclopedia and Formal contexts. While grammatically sound and frequently used, "snobbish" should be employed judiciously, considering the potential for offense. Alternatives such as "pretentious", "arrogant", and "haughty" can offer nuanced ways to express similar sentiments. Avoid overuse in casual settings where a less judgmental term may be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Pretentious

Focuses on the act of claiming or displaying merit or importance, especially when unwarranted.

Arrogant

Emphasizes an exaggerated sense of one's own importance or abilities.

Haughty

Highlights a disdainful and superior attitude.

Supercilious

Stresses a feeling of superiority, often displayed through dismissive behavior.

Condescending

Indicates a patronizing attitude, treating others as if they are inferior.

Elitist

Relates to the belief that certain individuals or groups are superior and deserving of privilege.

Patronizing

Describes a way of treating someone with an apparent kindness that betrays a feeling of superiority.

Uppish

Implies a sense of inflated self-importance, especially in someone of lower social status.

Pompous

Highlights self-importance and an exaggerated display of dignity.

Smug

Conveys excessive satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements.

FAQs

How can I use "snobbish" in a sentence?

You can use "snobbish" to describe someone who acts superior because of their social status, wealth, or knowledge. For example, "The "snobbish" art critic only praised paintings that were incredibly obscure".

What is a less formal synonym for "snobbish"?

While "snobbish" implies a strong sense of superiority, less formal synonyms include "picky", "choosy", or "uppity", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "snobbish" and "pretentious"?

"Snobbish" implies a belief in one's inherent superiority, while "pretentious" suggests an attempt to appear more important or cultured than one actually is.

Is it always negative to describe someone as "snobbish"?

Yes, describing someone as "snobbish" typically carries a negative connotation, as it implies an attitude of disdain and superiority towards others.