Word
brat
A brat is a child who behaves badly and annoys other people.
Meanings
a child who behaves badly, often because they are spoiled or rude
an adult who behaves in a rude, childish, or selfish way (informal, insulting)
Definition
A brat is an informal, usually negative word for a child who is rude, spoiled, or refuses to behave. People use it when a child is acting selfishly or causing trouble. It can sound harsh, so it is often better to choose a more neutral word in polite situations.
Examples
- I felt like a brat after I complained about the gift.
- You’ll look like a brat if you refuse to say thank you.
- He called his little brother a brat when the game ended badly.
- She didn’t want to sound like a brat, so she asked politely.
- They laughed at his joke, but they agreed he was being a brat in the meeting.
Common mistake
Learners often use "brat" too casually; it is insulting, so avoid using it in formal or polite situations.
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More nouns
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