need for admiration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need for admiration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's desire for validation or recognition from others. Example: "His constant boasting about his achievements reveals a deep-seated need for admiration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Its technical definition describes a devastatingly vulnerable person, compensating for a deeply imprinted inadequacy with a desperate need for admiration, and a grandiose self-image.

The New York Times

The narcissistic person is marked by a grandiose self-image, a constant need for admiration, and a general lack of empathy for others.

The New York Times

Narcissistic personality disorder involves a pervasive grandiosity, an extreme desire for attention, a sense of entitlement, a willingness to exploit or mistreat others, an excessive need for admiration and a lack of empathy.

The Guardian

If we are clinically inclined, a diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder might better meet the case (I quote from the D.S.M .: "a pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy".

The New Yorker

In the clinical diagnostic manual, the many criteria for narcissistic personality disorder include a "pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration and lack of empathy".

The New York Times

Like many of his colleagues, Dodes speculates that Trump fits the description of someone with malignant narcissism, which is characterized by grandiosity, a need for admiration, sadism, and a tendency toward unrealistic fantasies.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

For users whose primary need is for admiration, notifications such as "You're crushing the competition today" and "You nailed it" can be effective.

TechCrunch

Their grandiose self-beliefs are built on foundations as solid as quicksand, hence the need for constant admiration and attention, shoring up their unstable sense of self.

The Guardian

Mr. Braunstein's narcissistic disorder, she said, led to feelings of grandiosity, "an excessive need for the admiration of others," and to "lack of empathy for those around him".

The New York Times

Broken homes and childhood trauma are common among brutal killers; so is malignant narcissism, a personality type characterized not only by grandiosity but by fantasies of unlimited power and success, a deep sense of entitlement, and a need for excessive admiration.

The New York Times - Health

Narcissism is characterised by grandiose self-regard, a need for attention and admiration, vanity, a sense of entitlement and an exploitative attitude towards others.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing psychological traits, use "need for admiration" to describe a deep-seated desire for validation, often indicative of underlying insecurities or narcissistic tendencies.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "need for admiration" always stems from arrogance; it can also be a compensatory mechanism for low self-esteem or past trauma.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need for admiration" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a particular psychological or emotional state. As Ludwig AI showcases, it often appears in the context of discussing personality disorders or motivations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

20%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "need for admiration" is a noun phrase that describes a strong desire for external validation. It's grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news and media and academic settings. As Ludwig AI points out, it's crucial to understand that this "need for admiration" may stem from various underlying causes, ranging from low self-esteem to narcissistic tendencies. The phrase is suitable for formal and neutral registers, making it a versatile term for discussing human behavior. When writing, remember that the presence of "need for admiration" may suggest different causes not strictly related to arrogance. By using this phrase thoughtfully and with awareness of its potential implications, you can effectively communicate complex psychological concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wanting to be admired

A more direct rewording that expresses the wish to be held in high regard.

desire for recognition

Focuses on the yearning to be acknowledged for one's qualities or achievements.

yearning for validation

Highlights the deep emotional need to have one's feelings or actions justified.

desire for acclaim

Focuses on seeking public praise and recognition.

craving for approval

Emphasizes an intense desire to gain consent or positive regard from others.

hunger for recognition

Uses a stronger metaphor to express an intense need to be recognized.

seeking external validation

Specifies that the need for approval originates from outside oneself.

thirst for appreciation

Emphasizes the deep desire to be valued and acknowledged for one's efforts.

looking for applause

Implies a search for public acknowledgement and praise.

need for positive feedback

Highlights the requirement of constructive responses as a way to feel valued

FAQs

How can I use "need for admiration" in a sentence?

You might say, "His constant boasting revealed a deep-seated "need for admiration"" or "The politician's actions seemed driven by a "need for admiration" rather than genuine concern for the public."

What's the difference between "need for admiration" and "desire for recognition"?

"Need for admiration" suggests a deeper, potentially more pathological craving for praise, while "desire for recognition" can be a healthier, more general wish to be acknowledged for one's accomplishments.

Is it appropriate to use "need for admiration" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, especially in academic or professional contexts where psychological traits or motivations are being analyzed. However, ensure the tone remains objective and avoid judgmental language.

What are some signs that someone has a strong "need for admiration"?

Signs can include excessive boasting, a sensitivity to criticism, a tendency to exaggerate achievements, and a constant seeking of praise and validation from others.