Look down your nose at somebody/something

usgb
phrase

To show a feeling of superiority or dismissiveness towards someone or something.

He's always looking down his nose at people who have less money than him.
Visual representation of "look down your nose at somebody/something" - To show a feeling of superiority or dismissiveness towards someone or something.

Often appears as...

  • mustn’t look down your nose
  • looking down your nose at him

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "look down your nose at somebody/something"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

Carries a critical tone; suggests looking at someone as if they're inferior.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
She looked down her nose at the amateurish painting.
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Visual Imagery

Imagine someone physically tilting their head up, nose in the air, as a sign of rejection.

Illustration for Visual Imagery
At the staff meeting, he looked down his nose at every suggestion.
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Social Context

Often used in situations where one's social status or sophistication is compared.

Illustration for Social Context
He looks down his nose at fast food restaurants.
Visual representation of the word "Look down your nose at somebody/something"

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