Arrogantly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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arrogantly

[หˆรฆr.ษ™.ษกษ™nt.li ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in behavior

In an arrogant manner, showing an offensive attitude of superiority.

Synonyms

haughtily, proudly, snobbishly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
arrogantly

This word is used when someone behaves in an overbearing manner, acting as if they are superior to others. It has a negative connotation.

  • He arrogantly dismissed the suggestions of his colleagues.
  • She arrogantly assumed she was the only one capable of handling the project.
haughtily

Typically applied when someone shows disdain or contempt towards others they consider inferior. This word also has a negative tone.

  • She looked haughtily at the waiter, barely acknowledging his presence.
  • He haughtily refused to attend the meeting, thinking it beneath him.
proudly

This term is often used in a positive context to indicate a sense of accomplishment or dignity without looking down on others.

  • He proudly showed off his new car to his friends.
  • She proudly displayed her graduation certificate on the wall.
snobbishly

Describes behavior that shows someone thinks they are better than others, especially due to social class or knowledge. This term has a negative meaning.

  • She snobbishly ignored anyone who didn't attend an elite university.
  • He snobbishly turned his nose up at the idea of dining at a fast-food restaurant.

Examples of usage

  • She spoke arrogantly, as if she was better than everyone else.
  • He walked arrogantly into the room, looking down on those around him.
Context #2 | Adverb

in speech

In a way that shows an exaggerated sense of one's own importance or abilities.

Synonyms

conceitedly, egotistically, pompously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
arrogantly

This word is used when someone acts as if they are better than others and looks down on them. It has a negative connotation.

  • He arrogantly dismissed their ideas, believing his plan was superior
  • She spoke arrogantly, making everyone feel inferior
conceitedly

Use this word when describing someone who has an excessively high opinion of their abilities or worth. It often implies vanity or self-admiration.

  • He smiled conceitedly as he recounted his achievements
  • She conceitedly believed she was the most talented singer in the room
egotistically

This word is suitable when referring to someone who is excessively self-centered or focused on their own interests and importance. It carries a negative tone.

  • He acted egotistically, always steering the conversation back to himself
  • She egotistically assumed that everyone shared her opinion
pompously

This word is used for describing behavior that is overly grand or self-important, often in a way that is annoying or ridiculous. It has a slightly mocking undertone.

  • He spoke pompously about his plans, as if they were groundbreaking
  • She walked into the room pompously, expecting everyone to notice her

Examples of usage

  • He arrogantly claimed to be the best player on the team.
  • She arrogantly dismissed all opposing opinions without considering them.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People who behave arrogantly may be masking insecurities, projecting a need for validation and superiority.
  • Studies show that arrogance can lead to conflicts in relationships, as it often alienates others and creates barriers.
  • Research indicates that high levels of arrogance can correlate with poor leadership, as humility is often a more effective trait.

Pop Culture

  • Arrogance is a common trait for villains in movies and literature, often making them more relatable as flaws rather than strengths.
  • Many famous figures in history, like dictators or corrupt leaders, have been described as acting arrogantly, leading to their downfall.
  • Reality television often amplifies arrogance, showcasing characters who display inflated egos for entertainment purposes.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's work, characters like Macbeth exhibit arrogance, believing themselves above judgment, which leads to their tragic end.
  • Pride and arrogance are central themes in many classic novels, often depicted as fatal flaws in heroes and anti-heroes alike.
  • Contemporary authors frequently explore the consequences of arrogance in personal and social dynamics in their narratives.

Sociology

  • Cultural expectations can shape how arrogance is perceived; in some cultures, assertiveness is valued, while in others, humility is preferred.
  • Arrogance can emerge in group dynamics, especially in competitive environments, leading to social stratification and exclusion.
  • Studies show that societal attitudes towards arrogance can influence its acceptance or rejection within different social groups.

Origin of 'arrogantly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'arrogare,' meaning to claim for oneself, which was about taking something without right.
  • In Middle French, 'arrogant' also indicated someone who was presumptuous or inflated with self-importance.
  • The transition to English in the late 15th century maintained the negative connotation of overstepping boundaries.

The word 'arrogantly' comes from the adjective 'arrogant', which originated in the mid-16th century from the Latin word 'arrogantem' meaning 'assuming, overbearing, insolent'. The suffix '-ly' is added to form the adverb 'arrogantly', which describes the manner in which someone behaves or speaks with arrogance.


See also: arrogance.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,025, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.