Insolent: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when someone is openly rude or disrespectful, often in an arrogant way. It can describe behavior or tone that shows a blatant lack of respect for authority or social norms.

• The student was expelled for his insolent remarks to the teacher.
• Her insolent attitude towards her colleagues made her unpopular in the office.

Best used when describing someone who is boldly disrespectful in a shameless manner. It suggests a level of audacity and often implies that the behavior is unusually rude.

• Her impudent behavior at the dinner table shocked everyone.
• The impudent student talked back to the principal without any hesitation.

Describe behavior that shows a lack of respect for someone or something valued. It is a more straightforward and general term for rudeness.

• It's disrespectful to interrupt someone while they are speaking.
• Her remarks were disrespectful to the traditions of the community.

This word is used for someone who is boldly playful or mischievously impertinent, often in a way that's seen as charming or endearing rather than offensive.

• The little boy gave a cheeky grin after stealing a cookie from the jar.
• She made a cheeky comment about the boss's new haircut.

Usually referring to behavior that is rude and irrelevant, especially when someone speaks out of turn or without proper respect. It often carries a slightly old-fashioned or formal tone.

• The impertinent young man questioned the judge's authority in the courtroom.
• I found his impertinent queries during the meeting quite disruptive.

This word is typically used to describe someone who is openly disrespectful and rude, especially to people of authority.

• His insolent remarks during the meeting shocked everyone

Used to describe someone who is daring and willing to take risks, often in a bold or even reckless manner. It can have a positive connotation when referring to bravery.

• Her audacious plan to start a tech company was met with both admiration and skepticism

This word describes someone who is shamelessly bold and defiant, often ignoring conventional rules or norms. It can carry a negative connotation.

• His brazen disregard for the rules got him into serious trouble

Often used to describe someone who is cheeky, playful, and somewhat disrespectful in a light-hearted or flirty way. It is less harsh than 'insolent'.

• She responded with a saucy comment that made everyone laugh

Describes remarks or behaviors that are subtly or indirectly derogatory, often involving sarcasm or mockery. It generally has a negative connotation.

• He made a snide comment about her work that did not go unnoticed