break one's arm patting oneself on the back
English
Alternative forms
- dislocate one's shoulder patting oneself on the back
- hurt one's arm patting oneself on the back
- hurt one's shoulder patting oneself on the back
- hurt one's hand patting oneself on the back
Etymology
From pat on the back, and the uncomfortable position one would have to assume while patting their own back.
Verb
break one's arm patting oneself on the back
- (humorous, derogatory) To be very full of oneself. Often used as a sarcastic caution: "don't break your arm patting yourself on the back".
- - We're the best football team in the state!
- Careful, dude, don't break your arm patting yourself on the back.
- - We're the best football team in the state!
Synonyms
- (be very proud): toot one's own horn