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too big for one's britches
01
behaving in a manner that highlights one's often non-existant superiority over others
What is the origin of the idiom "too big for one's britches" and when to use it?
The phrase "too big for one's britches" is an American English idiom that has its roots in the early 19th century. This idiom is used to describe individuals who overestimate their abilities, take on more responsibility than they can handle, or tend to behave in a selfish manner.
Example
He's definitely too big for his britches.
He's gotten too big for his britches.
Ever since he won that small award, he's been acting like he's too big for his breeches, bragging about it to everyone.
The young athlete's recent success has made him think he's too big for his breeches, ignoring the advice of his coaches.
She thinks she's the best singer in the world, but her performances show she's really just too big for her britches.
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