To act high-and-mighty means to behave in a proud, arrogant, or self-important manner. This informal expression suggests a sense of superiority over others.
Meaning and usage:
This idiom is commonly used in informal contexts to describe someone who displays an inflated sense of their own importance or authority, often leading to condescension towards others. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the person’s attitude is uncalled for or unwarranted.
Examples of usage:
In social situations:
“Why does the doctor always have to act so high-and-mighty? It’s off-putting to the patients.”
Regarding interpersonal relationships:
“If Sally wouldn’t act so high-and-mighty, she’d have more friends and a better social life.”
In a workplace context:
“He tends to act high-and-mighty around his colleagues, which creates a tense atmosphere in the office.”
Why and when to use this idiom:
The phrase act high-and-mighty is useful in conversations discussing attitudes, behaviors, or social dynamics. English learners can use this idiom to express disapproval of someone’s pretentiousness or arrogance.
Equivalent expressions:
- “Put on airs” – This phrase indicates that someone is behaving as if they are superior to others.
- “Be full of oneself” – This expression describes someone who has an excessively high opinion of their own worth.
- “Act superior” – A straightforward alternative that conveys a similar meaning of condescension.
Using act high-and-mighty effectively communicates the idea of arrogance and self-importance, making it a valuable expression in discussions about social behavior and interpersonal dynamics.
