Give airs

Meaning

The idiom "give airs" means to behave pretentiously or to put on an air of superiority. It refers to someone who is behaving as if they are more important or capable than they actually are.

Usage

• She always gives airs about her job at the corporate office, even though she's just a junior manager.
• Don't give airs around your colleagues - be yourself and you'll win everyone over.
• He gave airs about being a self-made man, but I know he had help from his family.
• She didn't need to give airs about her qualifications - she was hired based on her experience.
• The new CEO started giving airs about his leadership skills, but we haven't seen any improvements in the company's performance.

Roots and History

The origin of the phrase "give airs" is uncertain. It may have come from the idea that pretentious people often try to fill up their lungs with air to give themselves a sense of importance. Alternatively, it may have referred to the act of fanning oneself with a handkerchief or fan to show off one's wealth and status.

Synonyms in English

• Be pretentious
• Act superior
• Put on airs
• Show off
• Be arrogant

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "S'avoir un air" - meaning to have an attitude of superiority
• German: "Haber einen Air" - meaning to have a self-important attitude
• Spanish: "Tener un aire" - meaning to have an attitude of importance or arrogance
• Italian: "Prendere aria di superiorezza" - meaning to take on an air of superiority
• Japanese: "高傲に栄える" - meaning to live a pretentious life.

Similar Idioms

• paint the town red

• pour cold water on

• free spirit