soi-disant

adjective·/ˌswɑː diːˈzɑːn/

Self-styled, calling itself so, often with implied skepticism about the claim. Soi-disant carries a sharper eyebrow than "so-called": the title is asserted by the subject, not granted by consensus.

The soi-disant expert spoke with great certainty, and the room quietly checked its own notes.

Etymology

Borrowed from French soi-disant “self-saying,” from soi “oneself” + disant “saying.” English kept it for moments when doubt wants to sound elegant.

Related Words

self-proclaimeda plain equivalent
pretendedharsher; implies falsity outright
putativesupposed; more neutral and legal-toned
nominalin name only; adjacent in effect