Act Like Somebody

In Southern and Appalachian speech, act like somebody means to behave properly, show respect, or carry yourself with dignity - as if to say "act like you’ve been raised right."

#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #PeopleandRelationships #Southern #ScoldingandTeasing

synonyms: behave yourself, mind your manners, show respect

Hillbilly Dude Says...

My Momma never said this one to me, but my neighbor from across the mountain would say, 'act like somebody,' to my friend on a regular basis. So it may be regional.

Hillbilly Dude Says...

My Momma never said this one to me, but my neighbor from across the mountain would say, 'act like somebody,' to my friend on a regular basis. So it may be regional.

Pronunciation

[ACT-like-SUM-buh-dee] /ˈækt laɪk ˈsʌm.bə.di/

Meaning & Usage

- Behave properly; show respect (saying/imperative)

Aunt Lou:

Y’all quit runnin’ in the hall. Act like somebody.

Ricky:

Yes ma’am.

variations: act like somebody, act like you’re somebody, act like you’ve been raised

★ Southerners often use "act like somebody" as a gentle scold or reminder, especially to children in public, to act with dignity and self-control. ★

Origin and Etymology

An old Southern and Appalachian phrase rooted in community expectations and upbringing. It reflects the cultural value of good manners and behaving "like you’ve got some sense."

Usage Notes

Act like somebody - classic Southern/Appalachian imperative meaning "behave yourself" or "show some dignity."
Frequently said by elders to children at church, school, or family gatherings.
Implied contrast: "Don’t act like you were raised in a barn" or "Act like you’ve got some sense."
Still widely used among older speakers; younger folks may find it quaint but familiar.
Embeds the Southern emphasis on manners, self-respect, and family reputation.

Kin Topics

Common Questions

Does "act like somebody" literally mean to act like a specific person?

No - it means "act like a respectable person" or "behave yourself."

Where would you hear this phrase?

In Southern homes, churches, schools, or any setting where elders expect polite conduct.

Is "act like somebody" still used today?

Yes - especially among older Southerners, but the phrase remains widely recognized as part of Southern manners.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 25). Act Like Somebody. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/act-like-somebody
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Act Like Somebody." HillbillySlang.com, 25 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/act-like-somebody.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Act Like Somebody." HillbillySlang.com. September 25, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/act-like-somebody.

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