god complex

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "god complex" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe someone who has an exaggerated sense of self-importance and acts as if they are above others. For example, "Caterina has a god complex; she refuses to take advice from anyone and expects everyone to do exactly as she says."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's The God Complex.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

You ask me if I have a god complex.

The Guardian

But I don't have any kind of God complex.

The New York Times - Magazine

You ask me if I have a God complex.

The New York Times

You can see why Mark Zuckerberg might be getting a God complex.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Come on Rory, it's hardly rocket science, it's just quantam physics". It's The God Complex.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Whithouse got to bring back the Tivolians from his story The God Complex.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Have 200 years passed since the events of The God Complex?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A former player, Enrico Ciccone, said Keenan has "a God complex".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

How did the God-complex arise?

The Guardian - Opinion

If anyone could be forgiven a God-complex, surely it's Prince.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the term "god complex", ensure that the context clearly supports the assertion of an exaggerated sense of self-importance or a belief in one's own infallibility. Avoid using it casually or as a mere insult.

Common error

Don't confuse genuine confidence or expertise with a "god complex". The latter involves a pervasive and unrealistic sense of superiority that often leads to dismissive or arrogant behavior.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "god complex" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a psychological state or personality trait, as seen in Ludwig's examples from news and media sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "god complex" is a common and readily understood term used to describe an individual exhibiting an exaggerated sense of self-importance and infallibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, especially in News & Media contexts. While not a formal clinical diagnosis, the term serves as a recognizable label for a pattern of behavior, often connoting criticism. Related phrases, such as "superiority complex" and "delusions of grandeur", offer alternative ways to express similar concepts, and remember that there's a difference between confidence and "god complex".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sense of omnipotence

Highlights the feeling of having unlimited power or control.

messiah complex

Implies a belief that one is destined to save or lead others, a more specific form of delusion.

delusions of grandeur

Emphasizes the unrealistic belief in one's own importance, talent, or power.

egomania

Signifies an obsessive preoccupation with oneself and one's own importance.

inflated ego

Highlights the excessive pride and self-admiration.

superiority complex

Focuses on a general feeling of being better than others, without necessarily involving a sense of divine power.

narcissistic tendencies

Points to personality traits characterized by an excessive need for admiration and a lack of empathy.

authoritarian personality

Describes someone who seeks control and dominance over others.

tyrannical tendencies

Suggests a desire to rule others oppressively and autocratically.

hubris

Refers to excessive pride or self-confidence that leads to a downfall.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone is described as having a "god complex"?

Someone described as having a "god complex" exhibits an exaggerated belief in their own abilities, importance, and power, often behaving as if they are infallible and superior to others.

How can you identify if someone has a "god complex"?

Signs of a "god complex" include a constant need for admiration, a lack of empathy, an unwillingness to accept criticism, and a tendency to dismiss others' opinions.

What are some alternative phrases to "god complex"?

Alternatives to "god complex" include "superiority complex", "delusions of grandeur", or "inflated ego" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to diagnose someone with a "god complex"?

The term "god complex" is not a formal clinical diagnosis. While it describes a recognizable pattern of behavior, it should not be used as a substitute for professional psychological assessment.