# 自命不凡

zì mìng bù fán

Consider oneself exceptionally important or talented

## Meaning & wording

**Literally:** Declare oneself extraordinary

**Register:** Critical · general

[People & connection](https://chinese-idioms.yudis.dev/idioms/topics/relationships)

## When to use it

Criticize inflated self-regard.

Actual ability does not automatically imply arrogance.

## Understanding the expression

The person assigns themselves an exceptional status without waiting for others' judgment. The expression criticizes that inflated self-estimation, especially when it leads to dismissing advice or belittling peers. It does not mean that recognizing one's strengths is wrong. The problem is exaggerated superiority that lacks proportion or respect. A useful sentence shows the behavior produced by the belief, such as refusing basic work because the person considers it beneath their supposed talent.

## Examples

他自命不凡，不肯做基础练习。

### Traditional Chinese

他自命不凡，不肯做基礎練習。

tā zì mìng bù fán ， bù kěn zuò jī chǔ liàn xí 。

He considers himself too exceptional for basic practice.

她讨厌那种自命不凡的口气。

### Traditional Chinese

她討厭那種自命不凡的口氣。

tā tǎo yàn nà zhǒng zì mìng bù fán de kǒu qì 。

She dislikes that self-important tone.

新人自命不凡，拒绝接受指导。

### Traditional Chinese

新人自命不凡，拒絕接受指導。

xīn rén zì mìng bù fán ， jù jué jiē shòu zhǐ dǎo 。

The newcomer arrogantly refuses guidance.

能力出众也不必自命不凡。

### Traditional Chinese

能力出眾也不必自命不凡。

néng lì chū zhòng yě bú bì zì mìng bù fán 。

Great ability does not require self-importance.

## Sources & reference checks

Original explanations and examples from Chinese Idioms Almanac. Source-checked October 6, 2026.

- [CC-CEDICT · forms & pronunciation](https://www.mdbg.net/chinese/dictionary?page=worddict&wdqb=%E8%87%AA%E5%91%BD%E4%B8%8D%E5%87%A1)

- [Ministry of Education · 成語典](https://dict.idioms.moe.edu.tw/idiomView.jsp?ID=629&webMd=1&la=0)

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