chutzpah
Chutzpah refers to extreme self-confidence or audacity, often to the point of being rude, cheeky, or pushy. It describes a person who acts as if the rules don't apply to them, usually in a way that is surprising or even impressive because of its sheer nerve. While it can be used to describe someone being genuinely obnoxious, it is often used with a sense of grudging admiration. It is a Yiddish loanword that has become common in English, typically used in casual conversation to describe someone who has the "guts" to ask for something unreasonable or do something bold.
In conversation
Asking for a raise
I can't believe he asked for a promotion after missing three deadlines!
I can't believe he asked for a promotion after missing three deadlines!
I know, right? The chutzpah on that guy is honestly incredible.
I know, right? The chutzpah on that guy is honestly incredible.
Used here to describe someone's audacity in a professional setting.
Returning an old item
Sir, this toaster is ten years old. I can't give you a refund.
Sir, this toaster is ten years old. I can't give you a refund.
I have the receipt! You have to honor it.
I have the receipt! You have to honor it.
That takes some serious chutzpah, coming in here with that.
That takes some serious chutzpah, coming in here with that.
Highlights the 'nerve' aspect of the word.
Examples
He had the chutzpah to ask for a free meal.
He had the chutzpah to ask for a free meal.
It takes a lot of chutzpah to pitch a business idea to a billionaire in an elevator.
It takes a lot of chutzpah to pitch a business idea to a billionaire in an elevator.
Despite his lack of experience, his chutzpah landed him the lead role in the play.
Despite his lack of experience, his chutzpah landed him the lead role in the play.
