What is arrogant? Pronunciation and usage in English

arrogant means . Learn how to pronounce and use arrogant through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of arrogant

arrogantadjective

/ˈarəɡ(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of arrogant

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "arrogant" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈærəɡənt/

Let's break that down:

  • /ˈær/: This is the stressed syllable. It sounds like "err" as in "erroneous." The 'r' here is a light r, not a strong one.
  • /rə/: This is a short, unstressed "ruh" sound.
  • /ɡə/: Sounds like "guh" followed by "uh."
  • /nt/: A combination of “n” and “t” – pronounced as a single sound, almost like a slight "nth" sound.

2. How to Say It (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with "err": Say "err" - like you're correcting something.
  2. Add "uh": Quickly follow "err" with the short "uh" sound, like in "but." (This creates "err-uh").
  3. Say "guh": Say "guh" - as in "good."
  4. Add "uh" again: Quickly follow "guh" with the short "uh" sound. (This creates "guh-uh")
  5. Say "nt": Finish with a single, slightly subtle "nth" sound. It's not a hard "t" sound.

Putting it all together: “err-uh-guh-uh-nt”

3. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The emphasis is clearly on the first syllable ("err").
  • Light "r": Don't over-emphasize the 'r' sound. It's a very subtle "r" within the "err" syllable.
  • Short "uh": Make sure the two "uh" sounds are short and quick, not drawn out.
  • Smooth Flow: Try to link the sounds together smoothly. Don't pause awkwardly between syllables.

4. Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are a few resources:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "arrogant"?

Usage and examples with the word arrogant in English

Let's break down how to use the word "arrogant" effectively in English. It's a strong word, so it’s important to use it correctly and with nuance.

1. Definition:

“Arrogant” describes someone who has an exaggerated opinion of their own importance and abilities; someone who acts self-superior and often looks down on others. It implies a feeling of entitlement and a lack of humility.

2. How to Use It – Examples:

  • Describing a Person's Behavior:

    • "He was incredibly arrogant after winning the competition, boasting about his skills to everyone." (Focuses on behavior)
    • "Her arrogant attitude immediately put me off." (Describes a general disposition)
    • "Don’t be so arrogant! It’s important to listen to other people’s ideas." (Direct critique of behavior)
    • "The CEO’s arrogant remarks about the company’s employees were completely inappropriate." (Specific example)

  • Describing a Person's Beliefs/Opinion:

    • "He has an arrogant belief that he's always right." (Focuses on the thought process)
    • "Her arrogant assessment of the situation ignored important facts." (Highlights the flawed judgment)

  • Figurative Use (Less Common, but Possible): You can sometimes use it metaphorically to describe something that assumes an unwarranted level of importance. This is less frequently used and can sound a bit dramatic:

    • “The restaurant’s menu was disappointingly arrogant, presenting complicated dishes with pretentious descriptions.” (Here, 'arrogant' describes a perceived overblown presentation)

3. Synonyms (Words with Similar Meanings):

  • Conceited: Similar to arrogant, focusing on excessive pride.
  • Haughty: Suggests a superior and disdainful attitude.
  • Overbearing: Implies a domineering or aggressive arrogance.
  • Proud: Can be positive if moderate, but “arrogant” usually carries a negative connotation.
  • Supercilious: Describes someone who acts as if they are superior to others.
  • Presumptuous: Acting as if you have a right to do something, usually assuming things without justification.

4. Important Considerations / Nuances:

  • Tone: “Arrogant” is a harsh word. Consider if a gentler alternative might be more appropriate.
  • Context: The situation matters. What might seem arrogant in one context could be simply confident in another.
  • Distinction between Confidence and Arrogance: Confidence is believing in your abilities without demeaning others. Arrogance does involve a sense of superiority and often a disregard for others' feelings or opinions.

5. Phrases to Use Alongside "Arrogant":

  • "He displayed an arrogant disregard for..."
  • "Her arrogant attitude was apparent in..."
  • "It was an arrogant assumption to believe..."

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to describe? (e.g., a specific person's behavior, a situation, a piece of writing?)
  • What is the context you're using the word in? (e.g., a personal anecdote, a formal essay, a casual conversation?)

Synonyms for the word arrogant

Practice with vocabulary arrogant

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. His dismissal of the junior team's innovative ideas without proper consideration was perceived as deeply _______.
  2. Despite her significant achievements, she remained remarkably _______, always crediting her team's collective efforts.
  3. The company requires its employees to be _______ and committed, especially when working on critical client projects.
  4. The consultant's _______ certainty that his approach was the only viable option alienated many stakeholders.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (Select all that apply.)

  1. Which of the following adjectives describe someone who acts with an excessive sense of self-importance and superiority? a) humble b) arrogant c) self-effacing d) haughty e) supercilious
  2. A project manager who consistently ignores expert advice, believing only their own judgment is valid, is demonstrating behavior that could be described as: a) decisive b) presumptuous c) arrogant d) collaborative e) overbearing
  3. In a professional negotiation, being _______ is often beneficial, as it shows you believe in your position without demeaning others. a) conceited b) confident c) pompous d) assertive e) self-assured
  4. Her _______ tone, coupled with her dismissive gestures towards the junior staff, created a tense atmosphere in the meeting. a) condescending b) arrogant c) empathetic d) patronizing e) respectful
  5. Which words describe a person who is clever, shrewd, and shows good judgment in practical matters? a) naive b) astute c) sagacious d) discerning e) gullible

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The CEO's unwavering belief that he was always right, even when presented with contradictory evidence, eventually led to the company's downfall. (Rewrite using a form of "arrogant".)
  2. He had such an inflated opinion of himself that he openly mocked suggestions from his experienced colleagues. (Rewrite using a form of "arrogant".)
  3. Despite receiving numerous accolades for her research, the professor remained incredibly humble and approachable. (Rewrite without using "arrogant" or any of its forms.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. His dismissal of the junior team's innovative ideas without proper consideration was perceived as deeply arrogant.
  2. Despite her significant achievements, she remained remarkably modest, always crediting her team's collective efforts.
  3. The company requires its employees to be diligent and committed, especially when working on critical client projects.
  4. The consultant's arrogant certainty that his approach was the only viable option alienated many stakeholders.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) arrogant, d) haughty, e) supercilious
  2. b) presumptuous, c) arrogant, e) overbearing
  3. b) confident, d) assertive, e) self-assured
  4. a) condescending, b) arrogant, d) patronizing
  5. b) astute, c) sagacious, d) discerning

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The CEO's arrogance, stemming from his unwavering belief that he was always right, eventually led to the company's downfall.
  2. His arrogant attitude led him to openly mock suggestions from his experienced colleagues.
  3. Despite receiving numerous accolades for her research, the professor remained incredibly unassuming and approachable.

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