天てん狗ぐになる

expression, godan verb (-ru)

get conceited; become vain; get stuck up

Idiomatic expression derived from the mythical tengu, who is often depicted as proud and arrogant. Used when someone becomes overconfident or full of themselves, often after success or praise.

See also: 天狗 (てんぐ)

• 彼かれは少すこし褒ほめられるとすぐ天てん狗ぐになる。

  He gets conceited as soon as he receives a little praise.

• 成せい功こうして天てん狗ぐにならないように気きをつけて。

  Be careful not to get a swollen head after your success.