attitude of entitlement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attitude of entitlement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a mindset where an individual believes they deserve certain privileges or benefits without having to earn them. Example: "Her attitude of entitlement was evident when she demanded special treatment from her colleagues without contributing equally to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

It is the attitude of entitlement of a different kind".

The New York Times

Ms. Trump disdains the attitude of entitlement that plagues some of her peers.

The New York Times

The justification for this attitude of entitlement is that they paid money to own a house.

The New York Times

There is an attitude of entitlement among my generation, that causes great ignorance to the world around us.

University of California, Berkeley

Pretty much the opposite of the attitude of entitlement that is running rampant through big-time college sports.

The New York Times

"There is this condescending arrogance coupled with this attitude of entitlement that permeates everything he does," Mr. Ryan said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

To vent his disgust with the traffic, conspicuous consumption and attitudes of entitlement that pervade the East End in the summertime, Mr. Jaffe, 42, a Bridgehampton artist, created a Web site, www.nukethehamptons.com.

The New York Times

"We ourselves have never felt more disappointed," they wrote, "by the administration's failure to address the systemic and incalculable harm that both our students and our own pedagogical work suffer by Dartmouth's acceptance and support of structures that promote such attitudes of entitlement and disrespect".

The New York Times

Euphemisms are used to create attitudes of entitlement, which will be the death of our freedoms.

Huffington Post

Once in office, his attitude of cowboy entitlement led to war and debt.

Huffington Post

We need more resources rushed to Africa, less of an attitude of Western entitlement, and a bigger sense of global brotherhood and sisterhood.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "attitude of entitlement", ensure that you provide specific examples to illustrate the behavior or mindset you are describing. This adds clarity and credibility to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "attitude of entitlement" as a vague generalization. Always provide specific examples or supporting evidence to demonstrate the behavior or belief you're attributing to someone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attitude of entitlement" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a particular mindset or disposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attitude of entitlement" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a mindset where someone believes they inherently deserve privileges or benefits. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's commonly found in news articles, academic discussions, and scientific publications. While the phrase itself is neutral in register, it often carries a negative connotation, implying an unreasonable expectation of special treatment. Related phrases include "sense of entitlement" and "air of entitlement", each with slightly different nuances. When using "attitude of entitlement", providing specific examples will make your writing more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sense of entitlement

Focuses on the feeling or perception of deserving something.

air of entitlement

Suggests a visible or noticeable display of believing oneself to be deserving.

belief in one's due

Highlights the conviction that one is owed certain things.

presumption of privilege

Emphasizes the assumption that one has special rights or advantages.

demand for special treatment

Focuses on the act of requiring preferential handling.

expectation of advantage

Highlights the anticipation of receiving favorable outcomes.

feeling of deservingness

Emphasizes the emotional component of believing one is worthy of something.

arrogant expectation

Adds a negative connotation of excessive pride to the expectation.

superiority complex

Indicates a belief in being better or more important than others.

patronizing demeanor

Focuses on the way someone behaves, showing condescension.

FAQs

How can I describe someone who believes they deserve special treatment?

You can describe them as having an "attitude of entitlement", or use alternatives like "sense of entitlement", "air of entitlement", or "presumption of privilege" depending on the context.

Is it always negative to have an "attitude of entitlement"?

While often negative, the perception depends on context. Sometimes, a sense of deserving fair treatment, especially when rights are involved, can be framed as an "attitude of entitlement". However, it usually suggests an unreasonable expectation of privileges.

What's the difference between "attitude of entitlement" and narcissism?

While both can involve a belief in one's own importance, narcissism is a broader personality disorder characterized by grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. An "attitude of entitlement" can be a component of narcissism, but it can also exist independently.

How to avoid developing an "attitude of entitlement"?

Cultivate gratitude, practice empathy, and focus on contributing to the well-being of others. Recognize that success comes from effort and collaboration, not simply from deserving it.