Meaning
卖弄 means to deliberately display one's abilities, knowledge, or possessions in order to impress others or gain admiration. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting the person is being showy or ostentatious rather than naturally talented. The term implies an element of vanity or bragging.
Usage
This word is typically used in criticism or disapproval when someone is perceived as trying too hard to impress others. It often appears in phrases like 卖弄才华 (to show off one's talents) or 卖弄学问 (to flaunt one's learning). The tone is generally negative, suggesting the behavior is annoying or pretentious rather than genuinely impressive.
Examples
- 01他总是喜欢在女生面前卖弄自己的知识。.He always likes to show off his knowledge in front of girls.
- 02别在我面前卖弄你那点儿本事了。.Stop showing off that little bit of skill of yours in front of me.
Characters
Common collocations
- 卖弄才华to show off one's talents
- 卖弄学问to flaunt one's knowledge
- 卖弄风情to flirt coquettishly, to act seductively
- 卖弄聪明to show off one's cleverness
Antonyms
Origin
The combination literally suggests 'selling' (卖) one's 'tricks' or 'maneuvers' (弄), evolving to mean displaying or flaunting something for effect, much like a merchant displays goods for sale.