OK, Mr. Smarty Pants

[angliholic]

(They are sculpting clay)

It's a reindeer! Don't you see its little antlers and ... OK, Mr. Smarty Pants, what's yours supposed to be?



Who is Mr. Smarty Pants? And what connotations does it have to you? Thanks.

[Delmobile]

It's an only slightly perjorative term for a clever person. It's usually used in the context of affectionate teasing, as in your example. Including the "Mr." is optional. :)

Origin

[not a teacher]

[angliholic]

It's an only slightly perjorative term for a clever person. It's usually used in the context of affectionate teasing, as in your example. Including the "Mr." is optional. :)

Origin

[not a teacher]

Thanks, Delmobile.

I see your points exception for "affectionate teasing." Could you explain it in a few words? Thanks again.

[Delmobile]

I mean, the way you tease someone you feel affection towards. In other words, they know you're only teasing and take it in the right spirit.

Mother to child: "You big silly! If you wear your sunglasses in the house, you won't be able to see."


Wife to husband: "Okay, Superman, if you don't want the ladder in the house, how do you suggest we get the angel on top of the Christmas tree?"

Employee to boss: "You goofball, I can't believe you forgot to bring the contract." NOPE! This would not be an occasion for affectionate teasing! :)

[angliholic]

Thanks, Melmobile, for the wonderful explanations and samples.

I wonder if I could use friendly teasing to my close friends. I mean, does "friendly teasing" sounds right, too?

[amigos4]

Thanks, Melmobile, for the wonderful explanations and samples.

I wonder if I could use friendly teasing to my close friends. I mean, does "friendly teasing" sounds right, too?

Angli,

'Friendly teasing' sounds great! I would suggest, however, that friendly teasing be done face-to-face with your close friends. Written teasing can be hurtful if the recipient mistakes the tone/spirit of your comments.

Best wishes,
Amigos4

[angliholic]

Angli,

'Friendly teasing' sounds great! I would suggest, however, that friendly teasing be done face-to-face with your close friends. Written teasing can be hurtful if the recipient mistakes the tone/spirit of your comments.

Best wishes,
Amigos4

Thanks, Amigos4.
Got it!