Understanding the Idiom ‘Make an Ass of’

The idiom ‘make an ass of’ is an expression used to describe an act of making a fool of oneself, or acting in a foolish way. It is used to criticize someone’s decisions or actions that have caused them to appear foolish or ridiculous.

Synonyms of the idiom ‘make an ass of’ include ‘make a fool of’ and ‘embarrass’.

The idiom is an informal phrase and is classified as a verb phrase, as it is often used in the present progressive or past progressive tense. 

The context of the idiom ‘make an ass of’ is typically used to indicate the result of someone making a foolish decision, or taking a foolish action.

The etymology of the idiom dates back to the Old English word ‘æsce’, which translates to ‘donkey’ or ‘ass’. 

Sample Sentences 

1. If you continue making bad decisions, you’ll only be making an ass of yourself. 
2. His boss was furious after he made an ass of himself in front of the client.
3. She was embarrassed after making an ass of herself in the meeting.
4. He was determined not to make an ass of himself this time.
5. I can’t believe he made an ass of himself again.
6. She was trying hard not to make an ass of herself.
7. His friends laughed when he made an ass of himself. 
8. She made an ass of herself when she started to dance.
9. His behavior made an ass of him in front of everyone.
10. He was so embarrassed after making an ass of himself.