Snobbishly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snobbishly

[ˈsnɒbɪʃli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a pretentious or superior manner

Behaving in a snobbish or arrogant way, showing a disdain for those considered inferior.

Synonyms

arrogantly, condescendingly, haughtily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snobbishly	Used when someone looks down on others because they think they are better or belong to a higher social class. He snobbishly refused to attend the local fair, saying it was too 'common' for his tastes. She snobbishly commented on how poorly dressed everyone was at the event.
arrogantly	Applied when describing behavior where someone has an exaggerated sense of their own importance or abilities. He arrogantly dismissed the suggestion without even considering it. She arrogantly claimed that she was the best candidate for the job without listening to anyone else.
haughtily	Generally describes someone acting in a proudly disdainful or scornful way, often due to a sense of superiority. She haughtily ignored the waiter when he tried to take her order. He looked haughtily at the guests as if they were not worth his time.
condescendingly	Used when someone speaks or behaves in a way that shows they think they are better or more intelligent than others. She spoke condescendingly to her colleagues, assuming they didn't understand the complex topic. He offered to help, but did so condescendingly, as if no one else was capable of doing it right.

Examples of usage

She looked at him snobbishly, as if he wasn't worth her time.
He spoke snobbishly about the restaurant, criticizing everything from the decor to the service.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

with an air of superiority

Acting or speaking with an air of superiority, looking down on others perceived as less refined or cultured.

Synonyms

disdainfully, snootily, superiorly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snobbishly	Used when describing someone who behaves in an arrogant or condescending way, often because they believe they are superior due to their social status or education. It has a negative connotation. She looked at the new students snobbishly, convinced they wouldn't meet her high standards. He snobbishly dismissed the idea, saying it wasn't sophisticated enough for their group.
superiorly	Indicates a manner of behaving that shows the belief that one is above others in rank, quality, or status. This word can have a negative connotation depending on the context. He smiled superiorly, knowing he had the most experience in the room. She addressed her colleagues superiorly, as if they were all subordinates.
snootily	Used to describe a person who acts in a haughty or overly superior manner, often looking down on others. This term also has a negative connotation. The waiter acted snootily when we asked for ketchup. She sneered snootily at their casual attire, clearly feeling superior.
disdainfully	Describes someone who shows strong disapproval or contempt towards something or someone they consider unworthy or inferior. This word carries a negative tone. She looked disdainfully at the messy room, clearly unimpressed. He spoke disdainfully about the new policy, not hiding his discontent.

Examples of usage

She snobbishly dismissed the suggestion, believing her taste to be far superior.
He carried himself snobbishly, refusing to associate with anyone he deemed unworthy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Social Dynamics

Snobbishly behaviors can create social barriers, often leading to the exclusion of others based on perceived status.
People who act snobbishly may attempt to flaunt their wealth or education to intimidate or impress peers.

Literature

Many classic novels, such as 'Pride and Prejudice' and 'The Great Gatsby', explore themes of snobbishness among social classes.
Writers often use snobbishly characters to critique societal norms and highlight the absurdity of social hierarchies.

Psychology

Studies suggest that snobbishly attitudes can stem from insecurity; individuals may flaunt superiority to compensate for low self-esteem.
Displaying snobbishness can lead to social isolation, as people may prefer to associate with those who are more relatable.

Pop Culture

Films like 'Clueless' and 'Mean Girls' feature characters who act snobbishly, highlighting the allure and eventual pitfalls of such behavior.
Reality TV shows often spotlight snobbishly attitudes, as conflicts often arise from class distinctions and pretentiousness.

Origin of 'snobbishly'

Main points about word origin

The word 'snob' originated in the late 1700s in England, where it was used to describe a shoemaker's apprentice.
It evolved to mean someone who pretends to be of higher social status than they are, eventually leading to the adverb 'snobbishly'.

The adverb 'snobbishly' is derived from the noun 'snob', which originally referred to a shoemaker or a cobbler in the 18th century. Over time, the term evolved to describe someone who looks down on others perceived as inferior in terms of social class, wealth, or taste. The adverb 'snobbishly' embodies the behavior associated with snobbery, displaying a sense of superiority or elitism.