phrase General Slang

aren't you precious

ARNT yoo PRESH-us · phrase · informal

How cute—or how foolish (sarcastic).

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Definitions

1

A compliment for something adorable, but frequently a sweetly delivered put-down.

“You thought that would work? Aren't you precious.”
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aren't you precious In A Sentence

You thought that would work? Aren't you precious.

Origin & Usage

Southern politeness idiom that, like "bless your heart," can cloak condescension.

People Also Ask

What does "aren't you precious" mean?

It can be a genuine compliment for something adorable, but it's often a sweetly delivered put-down meaning "how naive."

Is "aren't you precious" sarcastic?

Frequently, yes. Like "bless your heart," it can cloak condescension behind a polite tone.

How do I tell if it's a compliment or an insult?

Tone and context decide. Said warmly to a child it's sweet; said flatly after a failed idea, it's a jab.

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