such an ass

USAGE SUMMARY

"such an ass" is correct and is commonly used in written and spoken English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe someone who is obtuse, foolish, or unhelpful. For example: "My boss is such an ass - he never listens to any of my suggestions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I'm going to look like such an ass.

The New Yorker

"I'm disappointed you'd be such an ass for no reason," she wrote.

The Guardian - Music

The positive reaction was a function of that sense of relief, for investors did not expect the pollsters to make such an ass of themselves.

Independent

"I was not such an ass as to kid myself that it was a key to popularity or to leadership, like personal charm or athletic prowess," he wrote later.

The New Yorker

And that's been hard because people then come up to you and go, "He's such an ass, your character".

Los Angeles Times

I'm sorry I behaved like such an ass with your sister.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

We took such an ass-whipping.

The New Yorker

If I was a ghost and someone tried to conjure me with that thing, I would just laugh hysterically and haunt their ass off for being such a dumb ass.

Vice

This was the famous occasion when Arnold, upon being introduced to Eunice Shriver, said, "Your daughter has such a great ass!" In January , 1981 Schwarzenegger started filming "Conan the Barbarian," his first high-grossing movie.

The New Yorker

He told me to be quiet and quit being such a kiss ass.

Huffington Post

It's such a kick ass song that it gets people on their feet and gets your juices flowing too.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "such an ass" sparingly in formal writing. It is best suited for informal conversation or creative writing where strong language is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "such an ass" in professional emails or academic papers. Opt for more neutral and respectful language to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such an ass" functions as a descriptor, specifically a derogatory adjective phrase, used to express strong disapproval or contempt towards someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used to describe someone obtuse, foolish, or unhelpful.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "such an ass" is an informal, derogatory expression used to describe someone who is foolish, obtuse, or unpleasant. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is commonly employed to express annoyance or contempt, primarily in informal contexts such as conversations among friends or creative writing. While grammatically correct, it should be avoided in formal or professional settings to maintain respectful communication. Alternatives like "complete jerk" or "total fool" may be suitable depending on the specific context. The sources examined come primarily from News & Media, indicating its prevalence in informal commentary. Therefore, exercise caution and awareness of the audience when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consummate ass

Indicates someone is a perfect example of an ass.

complete jerk

Uses a different noun to describe someone unpleasant.

colossal jerk

Emphasizes the magnitude of the person's unpleasantness.

total fool

Replaces "ass" with a synonym implying foolishness.

utter idiot

Emphasizes lack of intelligence rather than general unpleasantness.

real pain

Focuses on the annoyance caused by the person.

thorough nuisance

Highlights the trouble and inconvenience caused by the person.

absolute buffoon

Implies someone is ridiculous and incompetent.

downright unpleasant

Describes someone who is disagreeable.

genuine menace

Suggests someone is a threat or danger.

FAQs

What does "such an ass" mean?

The phrase "such an ass" describes someone considered foolish, obtuse, or generally unpleasant. It's an informal expression used to express strong disapproval.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "such an ass"?

It's suitable for informal settings among friends or in creative writing. Avoid using it in professional or formal contexts where respectful language is expected.

Are there more polite alternatives to "such an ass"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "complete jerk", "total fool", or "utter idiot" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "such an ass" in a sentence?

You might say, "He's being such an ass by refusing to help" or "I can't believe my boss is such an ass."