PhrasesHub

As bold as brass

    Definitions

      • confidence or bravery
        To describe someone who is unapologetically confident and self-assured, often in a way that can be perceived as arrogant or audacious

      • shamelessness or lack of embarrassment
        To describe someone who is not afraid to act or speak in a bold or daring manner, without any concern for how others may perceive them

      • showing no respect or consideration
        To describe someone who is brazen or impudent, displaying a lack of manners or etiquette in their actions or words

    Examples of As bold as brass

    • The salesperson was as bold as brass when she walked into the boardroom and demanded a promotion without any prior notice.

      This idiom is used to describe someone who is incredibly confident and assertive, to the point of being overly bold or impolite. The phrase "as bold as brass" implies a level of boldness that is almost too much, like the sound of brass (a loud, metallic sound) that is difficult to ignore.

    • The politician was as bold as brass when he accused his opponent of taking bribes during a live debate, without any evidence to support his claims.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone who is overly confident, but in this case, it is used to convey a negative connotation. The politician's boldness is seen as impolite and unfounded, much like the sound of brass that can be grating and unpleasant.

    • The musician was as bold as brass when she played her original composition in front of a packed audience, despite having no prior experience performing in front of such a large crowd.

      This example highlights the positive connotation of the idiom, as the musician's boldness is seen as courageous and admirable. The phrase "as bold as brass" implies that the musician was unafraid to take a risk and put herself out there, much like the sound of brass that is bold and attention-grabbing.

    • The athlete was as bold as brass when she refused to accept the referee's decision and demanded a replay, even though the evidence was clearly against her.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone who is overly confident, but in this case, it is used to convey a negative connotation. The athlete's boldness is seen as impolite and unfounded, much like the sound of brass that can be grating and unpleasant.

    • The artist was as bold as brass when she displayed her provocative artwork in a public space, despite facing backlash from the community.

      This example highlights the positive connotation of the idiom, as the artist's boldness is seen as courageous and admirable. The phrase "as bold as brass" implies that the artist was unafraid to take a risk and stand up for her beliefs, much like the sound of brass that is bold and attention-grabbing.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "as bold as brass" is typically used to describe someone who possesses a great deal of confidence and self-assurance. This can manifest in various ways, such as being unapologetically bold or daring, shamelessly impudent, or showing a lack of respect or consideration for others. In all cases, the idiom conveys a sense of boldness and audacity, often bordering on arrogance or recklessness.

    Origin of "As bold as brass"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the 19th century, where it was commonly used in British English. The word "brass" has long been associated with boldness and strength, as it is a strong and durable metal. The phrase likely originated from the expression "as bold as brass buttons," referring to the shiny and confident appearance of military uniforms at the time.

    Over time, the phrase evolved to its current form, and it is now used in various contexts to describe someone who possesses a bold and unapologetic demeanor. It is often used in a negative or disapproving manner, as someone who is "as bold as brass" may be perceived as arrogant or disrespectful. However, there are also instances where the idiom is used in a positive light, praising someone for their confidence and bravery.

    In conclusion, the idiom "as bold as brass" has a long history and has evolved to have multiple meanings and uses. It remains a popular phrase in modern English, often used to describe individuals who possess a strong and unapologetic personality.