above (oneself)

above (oneself)

1. Conceited and arrogant; haughty or self-important. Usually used after the verbs "be" or "get." Primarily heard in UK. Self-confidence is essential, but you have to learn not to get above yourself when things are going well. You're certainly acting above yourself these days. The rest of us have opinions worth hearing, too, you know!2. Above one's own concerns, desires, motivations, or agenda. Usually used after the verb "put." She's a great leader, always putting the needs of her team above herself.3. Into a higher social class or standing than one's own. Usually used after the verb "marry." A: "I hear that the local fishmonger's daughter is betrothed to a rich foreign lawyer!" B: "My word, she's certainly marrying above herself, isn't she?" For all the talk that social classes have been wiped away in recent years, you will still find people who believe one can't or shouldn't marry above oneself.See also: above

above (doing) something

[of someone] too mature or honorable to do something. I thought you were above doing something so thoughtless.

above someone or something

to be in a position that is higher than someone or something. The plane is now directly above us.

above someone

at a higher rank than someone else; serving as someone's supervisor. Ron is above Ginney, but he treats her like an equal.

marry above oneself

Fig. to marry someone in a higher social class than oneself. They say she married above herself, but who cares? Scott thought it would not be possible to marry above himself.See also: above, marry

above yourself

conceited; arrogant. 1999 Frank McCourt 'Tis Many a man made his way in America by the sweat of his brow and his strong back and it's a good thing to learn your station in life and not be getting above yourself. See also: above

above

/beyond reproach So good as to preclude any possibility of criticism.