call oneself; claim to be
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesverb
to call oneself; to style oneself
neutralOften used to state one's own name, title, or how one wishes to be addressed.
He calls himself a teacher, but he has never actually taught for a single day.
In ancient times, emperors often styled themselves as "zhen" or "guaren".
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This writer often uses the first-person "I" to refer to himself in his works.
verb
to claim to be; to profess; to assert
neutralUsed when someone makes a statement about their identity, status, abilities, or experiences, which may or may not be true. Often implies a lack of official verification.
He claims to be fluent in five foreign languages, but he can't even handle a simple conversation.
The suspect claims he was not at the scene when the crime occurred.
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This doctor professes to have thirty years of medical experience.
She claimed to be a reporter from a certain newspaper to obtain information.