a bit of complacency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit of complacency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small amount of self-satisfaction or a lack of concern about potential dangers or deficiencies. Example: "The team's recent success led to a bit of complacency, causing them to overlook important details in their strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

He always seemed to know he was going to win, which led to a bit of complacency creeping into his game at times, and Becker did play some accomplished tennis.

The Guardian - Sport

"I think a bit of complacency has crept in.

BBC

"It will go to the wire, but the most disappointing thing was it was in our hands when we were around the top at one point and flying, but I think maybe a bit of complacency came in," he continued.

BBC

"With [Breidis] Prescott [when Khan lost in the first round]  in the earlier days there was maybe a bit of complacency and I think he' learned from that and gone forward".

BBC

"With our fans going 'Ole' that didn't really help us because a bit of complacency crept in and it looked a bit too easy but the goal changed the complexion of the game.

BBC

"Some research we've done shows sports clubs are scared of opening their doors which they don't need to be - perhaps there was a bit of complacency thinking we'd wait until afterwards and we should have got programmes in place earlier.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

So Spain will come strong again but it's a big ask for the youngsters to come in and replace what was maybe an ageing squad with a little bit of complacency and a lack of desire".

BBC

"We get a bit of success, a bit of expectation, sometimes a little bit of complacency and that can give you a little slap in the face.

The Guardian - Sport

Perhaps it was a little bit of complacency, a sense that their mere presence on the pitch would be sufficient to beat Newcastle, but collectively they rarely matched Klopp's dynamism in the technical area.

The Guardian - Sport

"There has been a little bit of complacency that has set in after 9/11," Mr. Schumer said in a telephone interview.

The New York Times

Arsenal were considerably the more accomplished team and perhaps it was just a little bit of complacency that crept in towards the end.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bit of complacency", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended degree of self-satisfaction or lack of concern. The phrase is most effective when it highlights a subtle yet consequential shift in attitude or behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit of complacency" when the situation warrants a stronger term like negligence or recklessness. Overstating the consequence undermines the impact and accuracy of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit of complacency" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples show it describing an element that creeps into situations, affecting outcomes negatively, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit of complacency" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, that describes a slight degree of self-satisfaction or lack of concern that can creep into various situations, potentially leading to negative outcomes. While not overly frequent, it's commonly found in News & Media and business contexts. The phrase is considered neutral in tone and its usage effectively highlights a subtle shift in attitude. When writing, avoid overstating the consequence and consider more serious alternatives if the situation warrants it. To improve writing consider practical suggestions such as the effective use in highlighting subtle yet consequential shifts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a degree of self-satisfaction

This phrase is more formal and directly addresses the feeling of being pleased with oneself, which can lead to complacency.

a touch of smugness

This alternative implies a slightly arrogant self-satisfaction, adding a negative connotation not always present in the original phrase.

a hint of carelessness

This suggests a lack of attention to detail, which is a possible consequence of being complacent.

some lack of diligence

Emphasizes a shortfall in effort and attentiveness.

a certain laxity

Implies a relaxation of standards or rules, which can contribute to complacency.

a shade of negligence

Similar to 'carelessness' but carries a slightly stronger implication of duty being unmet.

a modicum of apathy

Suggests a lack of interest or concern, potentially fostering complacency.

a smidgen of self-regard

Focuses on the positive feeling toward oneself which is one part of the semantic meaning.

a speck of heedlessness

Indicates a disregard for potential consequences, often a component of complacency.

a soupçon of hubris

Hubris is excessive pride or self-confidence and it is a cause of "a bit of complacency".

FAQs

How can "a bit of complacency" affect performance?

Even "a bit of complacency" can lead to overlooking important details, reduced effort, and ultimately, decreased performance. It's a subtle shift in attitude that can have significant consequences.

What's the difference between "a bit of complacency" and "self-satisfaction"?

"A bit of complacency" implies a potential negative outcome due to overconfidence, whereas "self-satisfaction" is simply a feeling of contentment. Complacency suggests a lack of vigilance.

When is it appropriate to use "a bit of complacency" in writing?

Use "a bit of complacency" when you want to describe a situation where someone's success or comfort has led to a slight decrease in their diligence or attentiveness, potentially causing problems.

Are there synonyms for "a bit of complacency" that suggest more serious consequences?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use terms like "negligence", "apathy", or "dereliction" if the situation warrants a stronger term than "a bit of complacency".