Context

This famous line is spoken by Ben Braddock, played by Dustin Hoffman in The Graduate (directed by Mike Nichols, 1967).

Ben Braddock is drifting through life, unsure of what he wants to do post-school, no girlfriend, not many friends… just your typical, socially awkward teen who's trying to figure it all out. Who hasn't been there?

Suddenly, his parents' hot friend, Mrs. Robinson, lures him to her place, loads him up with liquor, and then totally starts hitting on him. Ben initially resists acceptance of the fact that that is indeed what is happening, but he can only fool himself for so long.

Especially once she puts one foot up on a stool after raising her leg in what is a particularly revealing skirt. 

Subtlety is not this woman's strong suit.

Where you've heard it

• You've almost certainly heard Simon and Garfunkel's famous song "Mrs. Robinson," which was written specifically for the film.

• On an episode of the series Boy Meets World, one character says, "Missy Robinson, you're trying to seduce me." (Coincidentally—or perhaps not so coincidentally—actor William Daniels appeared in both the show and The Graduate).

• And even The Simpsons got in on the action. "Mrs. Krabappel, you're trying to seduce me." We're sure she's a lovely person and a great teacher, but…ew.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

It doesn't get any more blunt or straightforward than this. Ben is done with Mrs. Robinson's toying, and he just wants to know what in the world is going on, so he comes out and says it, point blank.