look down one's nose at sb

The phrase look down one's nose at sb is often used in English, but what does this idiom mean? When idioms are used in the right situations, they strengthen communication and enrich the language. You can communicate more effectively by learning the meaning of look down one's nose at sb.

Meaning of "look down one's nose at sb"

Meaning

The idiom 'look down one's nose at sb' is used to describe someone who behaves in a superior and dismissive manner towards someone else. This phrase is typically used when speaking about a person who has a condescending attitude towards someone else. It can also describe someone who judges or looks down upon someone with disdain and contempt.

Etymology

The phrase 'look down one's nose at sb' has its origins in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin phrase "nasutus nasor" which translates to "pointed nose". This phrase was used to describe someone who had a sharp nose or an aquiline profile. This phrase was then used as an idiom to describe someone who has a haughty and snobbish attitude towards another.

Usage

The phrase 'look down one's nose at sb' is often used in both spoken and written English. It is typically used to describe a person who has a condescending attitude towards someone else. It is often used in social contexts when talking about a person who has a superior attitude or acts in a pretentious manner.

Example Sentences

• He's been looking down his nose at his classmates since he got the promotion.
• John always looks down his nose at people who are less educated than him.
• Martha can't stand it when people look down their nose at her.
• She could always be counted on to look down her nose at anyone who wasn't up to her standards.
• He arrogantly looked down his nose at me when I asked him a question.

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.