it was complacent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was complacent" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, attitude, or behavior that is self-satisfied or unconcerned about potential dangers or deficiencies. Example: "Despite the warnings from experts, the company was complacent about the risks involved in their new project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Given this uncertainty, some economists would say it was complacent for Mr Osborne to leap on the recent momentum in the economy as proof that there could never have been better way out of the financial crisis than the one he has followed.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sometimes it is complacent mirror-gazing.

The New York Times - Books

It is complacent because it assumes that election strategists are blinkered only to believe in their own previous judgments.

Independent

It is complacent and fatuous in a way that only a preeningly well-intentioned Hollywood drama can be.

The Guardian - Film

"However it is complacent and somewhat misleading to crow about record levels of output.

BBC

I don't think it's complacent from Arsenal - it is a fine pass through and Sam Baldock just steals into the space behind the Arsenal centre-backs.

BBC

Yet there is a recognition that it cannot be complacent and it has been noted at Old Trafford how serious Manchester City are about developing their own talent.

The Guardian - Sport

I was complacent.

The New York Times - Sports

"No-one was complacent.

BBC

"It would be complacent to take these rights for granted".

The Guardian

Pretending that it was is complacent, insular and either intellectually dishonest or genuinely stupid.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was complacent", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for your reader.

Common error

While grammatically sound, excessive use of "it was complacent" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "they were too self-assured" or "they underestimated the risk" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was complacent" functions as a subject complement, where "it" is the subject and "was complacent" describes its state. This is confirmed by Ludwig AI, indicating grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was complacent" is grammatically correct and functions to criticize or express concern about a lack of vigilance. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's important to consider context and audience when using this phrase. As evidenced by the limited number of examples, the phrase is rare in usage. Varying your language with synonyms like "they were too self-assured" or "they underestimated the risk" can enhance your writing's impact. The main contexts where you'll find the use of "it was complacent" are News & Media. Considering these factors will ensure effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were too self-assured

Focuses on excessive confidence as the reason for inaction.

they were too laid-back

Highlights the relaxed and careless attitude.

they underestimated the risk

Emphasizes a flawed assessment of potential dangers.

they were not vigilant enough

Stresses the lack of attentiveness and watchfulness.

they dropped their guard

Implies a lapse in protective measures or awareness.

they rested on their laurels

Suggests a failure to continue striving after initial success.

they became too comfortable

Highlights the dangers of excessive ease and lack of motivation.

they took things for granted

Focuses on a lack of appreciation and proper care.

they were caught napping

Indicates a failure to anticipate or respond to a sudden event.

they slacked off

Emphasizes the reduction of effort and diligence.

FAQs

How can I use "it was complacent" in a sentence?

Use "it was complacent" to describe a state of being self-satisfied and unaware of potential dangers or problems. For example, "The team's management believed that "it was safe enough" to continue testing without proper safety measures, but in reality, it was complacent, leading to an accident."

What are some alternative ways to express the idea of "it was complacent"?

You can use phrases like "they were too self-assured", "they underestimated the risk", or "they took things for granted", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between saying "it was complacent" and "it was negligent"?

"It was complacent" suggests a lack of awareness or concern, while "it was negligent" implies a failure to exercise reasonable care, which is a more serious accusation often carrying legal implications. "It was negligent" carries a stronger connotation of responsibility and potential legal repercussions.

Is it appropriate to use "it was complacent" in formal writing?

Yes, "it was complacent" is grammatically correct and can be used in formal writing. However, be mindful of overuse and consider using synonyms like "they were not vigilant enough" or "they dropped their guard" to add variety to your writing.