I'll have you know I'm a black belt in karate.

[Mustermisstler]

Hi everybody,

1) I will have you know that I was here first.
2) I'll have you know I'm a black belt in karate.
3) I'll have you know he is a very nice person.

From the sentences above , I'd like someone to clarify for me whether this "I'll have you know" expression is considered always rude or it depends on the context.

<<Spanish removed by moderator>>

Thanks.

 

[idialegre]

I would say it depends on the context. It's emphatic, but not necessarily rude.

 

[Copyright]

I agree with idilegre and would just mention that I always hear it, and use it, as a contraction: I'll rather than I will. But maybe that's just me.

 

[idialegre]

I, in turn, agree with Copyright. I've never heard it with "I will," only with "I'll."

 

[orlando09]

It is very emphatic, and usually used when contradicting something someone else has said or giving a warning. It is verging on being rude, but as Idealegre says it depends a bit on context. You wouldn't say it to someone you had a polite and dereferential relationship with, like a boss.

 

[idialegre]

You wouldn't say it to someone you had a polite and dereferential relationship with, like a boss.

I think you hit the nail on the head, Orlando!

 

[sound shift]

It can be used in response to stereotyping and other forms of rudeness:

- I didn't think you would know how to sew a button on, because you're a man.
- I'll have you know I've been sewing buttons back on my clothes since before you were born!

 

[Copyright]

You could certainly say it to a boss in a joking manner: I'll have you know I'm worth half as much as you're paying me.

 

[orlando09]

I suppose so, but your example sounds a bit weird - who would say that? But, generally, yes, it can be used in a light, jokey manner in some contexts, but that's definitely one to be used carefully. It would all be in the tone of voice etc. I wouldn't recommend it to non-native speakers.