be complacent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be complacent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of self-satisfaction or a lack of awareness of potential dangers or deficiencies. Example: "After achieving initial success, the team began to be complacent, ignoring the need for further improvements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Please don't be complacent.

The Guardian

But we can't be complacent.

The New Yorker

We can't be complacent here.

The Guardian - Opinion

No one should be complacent.

The Guardian

"You can never be complacent.

The Guardian - Sport

We must never be complacent.

The Guardian

But we cannot be complacent.

The Guardian

However, it should not be complacent.

The Economist

"We shouldn't be complacent about this".

The New York Times

But the BBC can't be complacent.

Independent

But Mr Rajoy cannot be complacent.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be complacent" when you want to warn against a state of overconfidence that could lead to negative consequences. It's often used to urge continued vigilance and effort.

Common error

Avoid using "be complacent" when you simply mean someone is happy or satisfied with their current situation. Complacency carries a negative connotation of being unaware of potential risks or the need for improvement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be complacent" functions as a warning or cautionary statement, urging against a state of self-satisfaction that can lead to negative consequences. Ludwig shows numerous examples where it's used to advise against inaction or overconfidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be complacent" is a commonly used phrase that serves as a cautionary message against overconfidence and a lack of vigilance. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, business and formal writing. It is important to note its negative connotation, distinguishing it from simple contentment. To avoid being redundant, one can consider the available alternative phrases, each with its own nuances to precisely fit different contexts. By keeping these points in mind, you can use "be complacent" and its alternatives effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become self-satisfied

Focuses on the development of an excessive sense of contentment with oneself or one's achievements.

rest on your laurels

Implies ceasing effort due to past success, suggesting a sense of satisfaction that prevents further progress.

get too comfortable

Suggests a state of ease and security that may lead to a lack of motivation or awareness of risks.

take things for granted

Highlights a lack of appreciation and awareness of potential loss or degradation.

become apathetic

Emphasizes a lack of interest or concern about issues that should be motivating.

let your guard down

Emphasizes a reduction in vigilance or preparedness, potentially leading to vulnerability.

lose your edge

Implies a decline in competitiveness or sharpness due to overconfidence or lack of effort.

drop your standards

Indicates a decline in the level of quality or expectation maintained.

fall into routine

Highlights the danger of becoming predictable and uninspired, potentially missing opportunities for growth.

be caught napping

Suggests being unprepared or inattentive when a challenge or opportunity arises, leading to failure or missed potential.

FAQs

What does it mean to "be complacent"?

To "be complacent" means to be self-satisfied and unaware of potential dangers or deficiencies. It suggests a lack of motivation to improve or address problems.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "be complacent"?

Use "be complacent" when you want to caution against overconfidence or a lack of vigilance that could lead to negative outcomes. It's often used to urge someone to remain alert and proactive.

What are some alternative phrases for "be complacent"?

You can use alternatives such as "rest on your laurels", "take things for granted", or "become self-satisfied" depending on the specific context.

How does "be complacent" differ from simply being content?

"Be complacent" carries a negative connotation of being unaware of potential risks or the need for improvement, while being content simply means being satisfied with the current situation without necessarily implying a lack of vigilance.