self importance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "self importance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an inflated sense of one's own worth or significance, often in a critical context. Example: "His self importance was evident in the way he spoke to his colleagues, as if their opinions were irrelevant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Most of these issues are centered around your SELF importance.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The self-importance jars.

The Guardian - Business

He was without self-importance.

The Guardian

It's drowning in its own self-importance.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"There's a certain lack of self-importance.

The New York Times - Magazine

She just sparkles with self-importance".

The New York Times - Sports

All he lacked was the self-importance.

The Guardian

Of course some might say this reeks of self-importance.

The Guardian - Books

And they have this enormous sense of self-importance.

The Guardian - Opinion

His name is a byword for gracelessness and self-importance.

The Guardian - Books

But in Sayle, self-importance is at war with humour.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "self importance" to critically describe an inflated sense of one's own worth, especially when contrasting it with actual achievements or contributions. It is often more effective than simply stating someone is "important."

Common error

Avoid using "self importance" when you mean healthy self-esteem or confidence. "Self importance" carries a negative connotation, suggesting arrogance and an overestimation of one's value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self importance" functions as a noun, typically used to describe a quality or characteristic of an individual. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating an inflated sense of one's own worth, according to Ludwig. Examples show its use in characterizing behavior or attitudes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "self importance" is a commonly used term that describes an inflated or exaggerated sense of one's own value, worth, or significance. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase carries a negative connotation, distinguishing it from healthy self-esteem or justified confidence. When using the phrase, it’s important to consider the context and ensure that it accurately reflects the intended meaning. Related terms like "egotism", "arrogance", and "vanity" can offer alternative ways to express similar concepts with subtle differences. Remember to avoid confusing "self importance" with genuine self-esteem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-conceit

A more direct synonym, closely mirroring the meaning of self-importance.

egotism

Focuses more on excessive self-reference and admiration.

inflated ego

Captures the sense of an exaggerated and unrealistic view of oneself.

arrogance

Emphasizes an overbearing sense of superiority and disdain for others.

conceit

Highlights an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities or worth.

vanity

Stresses excessive pride in one's appearance or accomplishments.

hubris

Suggests excessive pride leading to a downfall.

pomposity

Indicates an exaggerated display of self-importance.

presumption

Implies an unwarranted assumption of importance or privilege.

superiority complex

Describes a psychological condition characterized by feelings of being superior to others.

FAQs

How can I use "self importance" in a sentence?

You can use "self importance" to describe someone who has an exaggerated sense of their own value or abilities. For example: "His "self importance" was evident in the way he dismissed others' opinions."

What are some alternatives to "self importance"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "egotism", "arrogance", or "vanity" to convey a similar meaning. Each of these carries slightly different nuances.

Is "self importance" the same as self-esteem?

No, "self importance" is not the same as self-esteem. Self-esteem is a healthy sense of self-respect and confidence, while "self importance" implies an inflated and often unwarranted sense of one's own significance.

What's the difference between "self importance" and "self-confidence"?

"Self-confidence" is a positive trait reflecting belief in one's abilities, while "self importance" suggests an exaggerated sense of one's value, often accompanied by arrogance or a disregard for others.