become conceited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become conceited" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who has developed an excessive sense of self-importance or pride. Example: "After winning the award, he began to become conceited, often bragging about his achievements."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"Second Corinthians, Chapter 12," he said, and then he recited, " 'In order that I might not become conceited by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to harass me, to keep me from being too elated. . . .

The New Yorker

Paul's new office in effect "a second Pope", as he called it quickly caused him to become conceited.

Wikipedia

Although you should always feel good about yourself, never become conceited.

WikiHow

The reason this has been placed on the list, is because having too much pride can make one become conceited.

WikiHow

Paul says, "He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil".

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Susanoo, becoming conceited over his success, began to play the role of a trickster.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The thorn also stops Paul from becoming conceited about all that he accomplished for the church.

Huffington Post

Don't get conceited!

WikiHow

Between hiccups, Aristophanes attempts to explain that human beings were once circular but became so conceited that Zeus cut them in two, since when their only aim has been to find their other half.

The Guardian - Books

"Every conservative who joins Q&A legitimises a show that has become so conceited it makes no attempt at balance.

The Guardian

On her first trip abroad, to France, and then Italy, she was introduced to a "blond, blue-eyed count called Eurico", a man whom Liedloff recalled was "so successful with women, he had become extremely conceited and I would have nothing to do with him".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become conceited" to describe a gradual change in someone's attitude, rather than a pre-existing trait. The phrase implies a shift from humility to arrogance.

Common error

Be mindful of the distinction between healthy self-confidence and excessive conceit. "Become conceited" should be used when someone's self-belief crosses the line into arrogance and a sense of superiority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become conceited" functions as a verb phrase used to describe a change in a person's character or attitude. It indicates the process of developing an inflated sense of self-importance or arrogance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing this transformation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become conceited" is a grammatically sound way to describe the development of an inflated ego. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, highlighting its role in expressing disapproval of growing arrogance. While the phrase is relatively uncommon, it finds use across various contexts, from news reports to general knowledge resources. Be mindful that "become conceited" always carries a negative meaning, distinct from healthy confidence. Consider alternatives such as "grow arrogant" or "develop hubris" depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow arrogant

Focuses on the gradual development of arrogance.

develop hubris

Highlights the development of excessive pride and self-confidence.

get a big head

An informal expression for becoming overly proud.

become full of oneself

Emphasizes self-absorption and inflated ego.

start acting superior

Highlights the change in behavior towards others.

become swollen-headed

Similar to 'get a big head', implying inflated ego.

become puffed up with pride

Emphasizes the visual image of inflated pride.

acquire an inflated ego

Highlights the gaining of an excessively high opinion of oneself.

become haughty

Implies a disdainful and arrogant attitude.

develop a sense of entitlement

Focuses on the belief that one deserves special treatment.

FAQs

How to use "become conceited" in a sentence?

You can use "become conceited" to describe someone who develops an inflated sense of their own importance or abilities, such as, "After winning the competition, he began to "become conceited" and started treating his friends differently."

What's the difference between "become conceited" and "be conceited"?

"Become conceited" describes the process of developing conceit, while "be conceited" describes a state of already possessing that trait. For example, "He used to be humble, but he has "become conceited" since his promotion" versus "He "is conceited" and always brags about his achievements."

What can I say instead of "become conceited"?

Alternatives include "grow arrogant", "develop hubris", or "get a big head", depending on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to say someone "become conceited"?

Yes, the phrase "become conceited" always carries a negative connotation. It implies a negative transformation in someone's character, where they develop an inflated ego and a sense of superiority.