I have nothing to declare but my genius

Definitions

• boast about one's intelligence or talent
  To humorously or arrogantly claim that one has nothing to declare or announce except for their exceptional intellect or abilities

• deflect attention
  To divert attention away from one's personal belongings or possessions by making a grandiose statement about oneself

Examples of I have nothing to declare but my genius

• The artist confidently walked up to the customs officer and declared, "I have nothing to declare but my genius."

  This idiom is often used to downplay the significance or relevance of certain items or characteristics being declared, while highlighting a more important or notable trait. In this example, the artist is communicating that while they may not have any material possessions or significant items to declare, their natural talent and intellect are of utmost significance and should be recognized.

• The businessman sneered at his competitor's presentation, confidently declaring, "I have nothing to declare but my success."

  This use of the idiom emphasizes the individual's pride and confidence in their achievements, downplaying any potential negative aspects of their competition.

• The politician stood before the crowd and exclaimed, "I have nothing to declare but my unwavering commitment to the people."

  This use of the idiom highlights the individual's dedication to an ideological or moral position, downplaying any potential negative aspects of their character or background.

• The actor strutted onto the stage and declared, "I have nothing to declare but my talent."

  This use of the idiom specifically emphasizes the individual's natural ability or skill, as opposed to any material or external factors that may have contributed to their success.

• The famous author walked through the customs checkpoint with confidence, exclaiming, "I have nothing to declare but my genius!"

  This idiom is used to express pride and confidence in one's talents or abilities, implying that those talents are sufficient and noteworthy enough to declare to customs officials. In this context, the author is proud of their intellectual accomplishments and believes that they are distinctive enough to highlight during customs procedures.

• The talented musician walked onto the stage and declared to the crowd, "I have nothing to declare but my genius!"

  This idiom can also be used to make a dramatic statement, particularly in a public setting. In this example, the musician is announcing their exceptional talents to the audience, implying that their skills are unique and noteworthy enough to declare.

• The accomplished artist entered the gallery showcasing their work, proclaiming, "I have nothing to declare but my genius!"

  This idiom can also be used in the context of presenting one's work or achievements to others. In this instance, the artist is proudly presenting their talents and acknowledges that their unique abilities deserve recognition and distinction.

• The successful entrepreneur presented their business plan, proudly stating, "I have nothing to declare but my genius!"

  This idiom can be employed in various professional settings to demonstrate confidence in one's abilities and convey a sense of pride in one's achievements. In this context, the entrepreneur is confident in their business acumen and believes that their talents are noticeable and distinct enough to declare to their team or investors.

Conclusion

The idiom "I have nothing to declare but my genius" can be used to either boast about one's intelligence or talent, or to deflect attention away from one's personal belongings by making a grandiose statement about oneself.

Origin of "I have nothing to declare but my genius"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the famous Irish playwright, Oscar Wilde, who uttered this witty statement when he arrived in the United States in 1882. When asked if he had anything to declare by the customs officials, Wilde replied with this clever and humorous remark. The phrase has since become synonymous with Wilde's sharp wit and self-assured demeanor. This idiom is often used humorously or ironically to downplay or draw attention away from something else, much like Wilde did with the customs officials.