Brass neck/nerve

usgb
noun

The ability to do something that others may see as bold or shameless.

John had the brass neck to ask for a raise, even though he just started last week.
Visual representation of "brass neck/nerve" - The ability to do something that others may see as bold or shameless

Often appears as...

  • have the brass neck
  • show a brass neck

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "brass neck/nerve"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Context Matters

Use 'brass neck' to describe bold actions, often in a disapproving way, when someone ignores social norms.

Illustration for Context Matters
She had the brass neck to cut in line at the cinema.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Bold Rejection

'Brass neck' can suggest refusing to accept blame or embarrassment, even when it's expected.

Illustration for Bold Rejection
He showed a brass neck denying it was his mistake.
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Often Negative

'Brass neck' is usually negative, implying someone is being rude or disrespectful in their boldness.

Illustration for Often Negative
He had the brass neck to complain about the gift.
Visual representation of the word "Brass neck/nerve"

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