with an attitude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with an attitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is behaving in a confident, assertive, or sometimes confrontational manner. Example: "She walked into the room with an attitude that demanded respect and attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An eco-worrier with an attitude towards green behaviours tries to improve his/her green credential.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

(Atticus Finch with an attitude).

The New York Times

Just with an attitude," he said.

The Washington Post

He is Drew Bledsoe with an attitude.

The New York Times - Sports

"He's playing with an attitude," Fitzgerald said.

The New York Times

With an attitude like that you'll never get ahead.

University of California, Berkeley

"Approach it with an attitude of playfulness," he says.

Harvard Business Review

Cinderella wasn't an over-thirty black professional with an attitude.

The New Yorker

Jeremy Shockey arrived with an attitude for the offense.

The New York Times - Sports

A little duck waddling around with an attitude is funny".

The New York Times

Johnston said: "Metrosexuality was more to do with an attitude.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with an attitude" to add color and personality to descriptions of behavior or performance. It suggests more than just a mood; it implies a deliberate way of acting.

Common error

Avoid using "with an attitude" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive or clichéd. Vary your descriptions with more nuanced terms to better capture the specific emotion or intention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with an attitude" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state is experienced. It adds a layer of subjective interpretation to the described behavior, suggesting a particular disposition or mindset. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with an attitude" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to describe someone's behavior as displaying a noticeable disposition. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its register is typically neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of contexts, although it's wise to reserve it for informal or neutral writing. The phrase is most common in News & Media, adding color to descriptions and suggesting something beyond a simple mood. Remember to use it judiciously and consider alternatives to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a confrontational style

Emphasizes the argumentative and challenging nature.

with a chip on one's shoulder

Highlights a resentful or aggrieved attitude.

in a rebellious spirit

Highlights resistance to authority or convention.

in a defiant manner

Focuses on the rebellious aspect of having an attitude.

with a sassy demeanor

Emphasizes a lively and bold personality.

in a cocky way

Emphasizes arrogance and overconfidence.

with a swagger

Emphasizes a confident and self-assured manner.

with a bold approach

Highlights confidence and willingness to take risks.

in a challenging way

Focuses on questioning and pushing boundaries.

in a spirited fashion

Focuses on enthusiasm and energy in one's actions.

FAQs

How can I use "with an attitude" in a sentence?

You can use "with an attitude" to describe someone's behavior or approach to a situation. For example, "She answered the question "with an attitude" that clearly showed her annoyance."

What are some alternatives to "with an attitude"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in a defiant manner", "with a chip on one's shoulder", or "in a cocky way", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "with an attitude" in formal writing?

While "with an attitude" is grammatically correct, it's generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise and professional language to describe the behavior.

What does it mean when someone says someone else is acting "with an attitude"?

It typically means that the person is behaving in a way that is perceived as arrogant, disrespectful, or challenging. The specific interpretation can depend on the context and the tone of the speaker.