If I Do Say So Myself Meaning
Definition: In my opinion.
People often use this to soften praise they are giving themselves.
Origin of If I Do Say So Myself Meaning
The exact origin is unclear. However, it may have originated in the 1800s.
Examples of If I Do Say So Myself Meaning
In the example below, a husband and wife are talking about some renovations the husband made to their house.
Kip: Look! I repainted this room while you were gone today.
Caroline: Wow! That’s quite a bold color that you chose.
Kip: Yes! I’m so glad you agree. I also put carpeting on the first floor.
Caroline: I see you even put carpeting in the bathroom. That’s an unusual decision.
Kip: Yeah, that way our feet will stay warm even in the winter! It’s a genius idea, if I do say so myself. I’m glad you like it.
Caroline: Well, I didn’t actually say that I like it…
The next example involves two friends who are discussing an offer one of them received.
Brian: So, I accepted the job offer.
Raj: Really? Aren’t you worried about the fact that you won’t be able to finish school?
Brian: Actually, they wanted to hire me so badly that they agreed to let me work for them part time until I graduate. It’s a great deal.
Raj: Wow! That’s awesome. Congratulations!
Brian: Thanks. I’ve done pretty well, if I do say so myself. I’ve got a job with a great salary and benefits, and they’re willing to work with my schedule and everything. They’re even going to provide me housing and a company car!
Raj: Wow! That’s great! I agree with you! You have done well.
More Examples
This excerpt is about an actress who loves her hair.
- Chopra, a native of India who got her start competing in and winning beauty pageants before graduating to become a Bollywood star, has no trouble in the confidence department. “If I do say so myself, I’m very fond of my hair,” she divulged to WWD. –LA Times
This is an excerpt about a new team, which the author believes has low priced tickets.
- Atlanta United FC is an MLS expansion side that will join the league in 2017. The team just announced that season tickets are available (at very affordable prices, if I do say so myself) and also released this excellent hype video. –USA Today
Summary
The phrase if I do say so myself is an expression people use when they are giving their opinion on something that might be biased about.
It shows that they believe this in spite of the fact that they know it sounds biased.
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