an ego rush

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an ego rush" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of exhilaration or excitement that boosts one's self-esteem or confidence, often in response to a particular event or achievement. Example: "Winning the award gave her an ego rush that lasted for days."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

She said: "I admit there's an ego rush.

Independent

There's certainly an ego rush in that – I'm going to go be Justin Bieber for a day.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

When I entered my strategies, I figured I'd enjoy a triumphant ego rush.

Harvard Business Review

It's easy to be swept away by night life — the alcohol, the drugs, the ego rush that comes from being on the right side of the velvet rope.

The New York Times

As the barriers to entry into the start-up game continue to shrink, this is an example of business acumen and market fit outweighing an ego-based rush to be in the game.

Forbes

As Leandra put it, "When I do find myself wearing snap-appropriate garb, though, there is an undeniable ego-stroking-rush about standing amid a bike lane by Pier 59, clutching my purse and coyly smiling at an army of click-click-clicks, calling my name and asking me to look over".

Huffington Post

What an ego!

The Guardian - Arts

It's an ego thing.

Harvard Business Review

It's an ego story".

The New York Times

He really has an ego".

The Guardian

It's also an ego thing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an ego rush" when you want to convey a sense of exhilaration or excitement derived from a boost in self-esteem or accomplishment. Be mindful of the potential for a negative connotation if overused.

Common error

Avoid using "an ego rush" to describe situations where someone is behaving arrogantly or conceitedly. While the phrase implies a boost in self-esteem, it should not be used to excuse or justify boastful behavior. Instead, focus on the genuine sense of accomplishment or satisfaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an ego rush" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a specific kind of feeling or experience, that is recognized by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an ego rush" is a noun phrase describing a feeling of exhilaration derived from a boost in self-esteem or accomplishment. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and primarily used in News & Media contexts. While generally positive, it's important to be mindful of the potential for negative connotations. Related phrases include "a surge of pride" and "a thrill of accomplishment", offering alternative ways to express similar sentiments. Be cautious not to confuse it with arrogance, focusing instead on genuine achievement. Although Ludwig's analysis confirms its validity, its relatively rare usage suggests considering context and potential alternatives for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rush of self-satisfaction

Focuses more on the feeling of satisfaction that you have with yourself, rather than the excitement.

a thrill of accomplishment

This alternative focuses on the excitement derived from completing a task successfully.

a boost of self-esteem

This phrase highlights the improvement in one's self-regard, minimizing the aspect of exhilaration.

a jolt of confidence

This highlights the sudden increase in self-assurance, minimizing the excitement.

a surge of pride

This alternative focuses on the feeling of pride as a result of an achievement, rather than the excitement.

a feeling of triumph

This suggests victory and success, putting less emphasis on the personal satisfaction.

a wave of exhilaration

While emphasizing excitement, this lacks the explicit connection to ego or self-perception.

an upswing in self-regard

This focuses on the increase in self-esteem, lacking the sense of immediacy and excitement.

a high of self-importance

This phrase carries a slightly negative connotation, implying an inflated sense of self.

a moment of glory

This suggests a brief period of success and recognition, shifting the focus from personal feeling.

FAQs

How can I use "an ego rush" in a sentence?

You can use "an ego rush" to describe a feeling of exhilaration after achieving something significant. For example, "Winning the competition gave him "an ego rush" that lasted for days".

What are some alternatives to "an ego rush"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a boost of self-esteem", "a feeling of triumph", or "a thrill of accomplishment".

Is "an ego rush" always a positive experience?

While generally positive, "an ego rush" can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation if it leads to overconfidence or arrogance. Be mindful of the context in which you use the phrase.

What's the difference between "an ego rush" and "an adrenaline rush"?

"An ego rush" is related to a boost in self-esteem or a feeling of accomplishment, while "an adrenaline rush" is a physiological response to excitement or stress. They are different types of exhilarating experiences.