How Do You Spell SNEEZE AT?

Pronunciation: [snˈiːz at] (IPA)

The phrase "sneeze at" is spelled according to the standard English phonemic orthography, which uses a combination of letters and letter clusters to represent the sounds of words. In IPA transcription, "sneeze at" is /sniz æt/, with the /z/ sound spelled with the letter "z" and the /æ/ sound spelled with the letter "a". The phrase means to dismiss or belittle something, as if it were a minor inconvenience like a sneeze. Despite its unusual phrasing, "sneeze at" is a common idiom in English.

SNEEZE AT Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "sneeze at" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal speech. It is usually used in the negative form "not to sneeze at" and means to not dismiss or underestimate the value, significance, importance, or quality of something, often referring to an opportunity, achievement, or possession.

   This expression originates from the reflex action of sneezing, which is often accompanied by a sudden, involuntary expulsion of air through the nose and mouth. Similar to how a sneeze catches one off guard, "sneeze at" suggests that one should not overlook or dismiss something hastily without giving it proper attention or recognition.

   When someone says that something is "not to sneeze at," they imply that it is worthy of consideration, respect, or admiration. It suggests that the subject in question should not be casually disregarded, as it holds some level of importance or value. For instance, a high-paying job offer or a prominent business opportunity may be labeled as "not to sneeze at," encouraging individuals to take it seriously and acknowledge its potential benefits. It emphasizes the need to recognize and appreciate the significance of something that may otherwise be easily overlooked or underestimated.

   In conclusion, the expression "not to sneeze at" serves as a cautionary reminder not to dismiss or underestimate the value or importance of something, requiring one to pay attention and give proper recognition to the subject in question.

Common Misspellings for SNEEZE AT

• sneez at
• aneeze at
• zneeze at
• xneeze at
• dneeze at
• eneeze at
• wneeze at
• sbeeze at
• smeeze at
• sjeeze at
• sheeze at
• snweze at
• snseze at
• sndeze at
• snreze at
• sn4eze at
• sn3eze at
• snewze at
• snesze at
• snedze at

Etymology of SNEEZE AT

The phrase "sneeze at" is an idiomatic expression used to downplay or dismiss the importance or value of something. For example, if someone says, "It's not something to sneeze at", they mean that it should be taken seriously or seen as significant.

The origin of this phrase is not entirely clear, but it likely came from the idea that sneezing can be a sudden and involuntary reflex. Sneezes often happen unexpectedly and without warning, which can make others nearby startle or be taken by surprise.

In the context of dismissing or devaluing something, the phrase "sneeze at" implies that the subject being discussed is not substantial enough to warrant such a reaction. It suggests that the matter is trivial or inconsequential, similar to how a sneeze might be a momentary and fleeting event that is quickly forgotten.

Idioms with the word SNEEZE AT

• sneeze at sm The idiom "sneeze at someone or something" means to underestimate, not appreciate, or not take seriously the value, importance, or significance of someone or something. It implies disregarding or trivializing someone or something because they are perceived as less important or unworthy of attention.
• nothing to sneeze at The idiom "nothing to sneeze at" means something that should not be underestimated or dismissed as unimportant or insignificant. It implies that the thing or situation being referred to deserves attention, respect, or appreciation.
• sneeze at sth The idiom "sneeze at something" means to show disrespect or disregard for something, often underestimating its value, importance, or significance. It implies treating something as trivial or insignificant, often without sufficient consideration or appreciation.