self-centered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "self-centered" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is primarily concerned with their own interests, needs, or welfare, often to the detriment of others. Example: "His self-centered behavior made it difficult for him to maintain friendships, as he rarely considered anyone else's feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Both were self-centered.

The New Yorker

Profane, self-centered, full of life.

The New Yorker

Message: "You're an inconsiderate, self-centered pig.

The New York Times

I'm not as self-centered".

The New York Times

Was more self-centered than I knew.

The New York Times

Is your husband a self-centered jerk?

The Guardian - Film

Wouldn't you be a little self-centered?

The Guardian - Opinion

He is unpredictable and self-centered".

The Guardian

She blames Yeltsin for self-centered fecklessness.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

That's not just self centered, that's Tea Party self centered.

Huffington Post

You're selfish and self centered.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character in fiction as "self-centered", consider showing this trait through their actions and dialogue, rather than simply stating it directly. This makes the character more believable and engaging.

Common error

Avoid labeling people as simply "self-centered" without providing specific examples or context. This can come across as judgmental and unhelpful. Instead, focus on describing the behaviors that lead you to believe they are "self-centered".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self-centered" functions primarily as an adjective, describing a person or their behavior as being focused on their own needs and interests to the exclusion of others. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this adjectival use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "self-centered" is a commonly used adjective to describe individuals who prioritize their own needs and desires above those of others. According to Ludwig, it appears frequently in news and media contexts, reflecting its relevance in describing behaviors and personalities. While grammatically correct and widely understood, overusing the label without providing specific examples should be avoided. Alternative phrases like "egocentric" or "narcissistic" offer nuances in meaning. Ultimately, understanding the context and implications of using "self-centered" enhances effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

egocentric

Emphasizes a belief in one's own central importance and a limited ability to see things from another person's point of view.

narcissistic

Implies an excessive admiration of oneself and a need for admiration from others.

self-absorbed

Highlights a preoccupation with one's own thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

self-obsessed

Indicates an excessive and unhealthy preoccupation with oneself.

me-first

Emphasizes the tendency to put one's own needs and desires before those of others.

inward-looking

Suggests a focus on internal thoughts and feelings, often to the neglect of external realities.

wrapped up in oneself

Suggests being completely engrossed in one's own concerns and oblivious to the needs of others.

self-regarding

Focuses on oneself and one's own interests, often with a degree of vanity.

egoistic

Prioritizes personal gain and interests above all else, often at the expense of others.

solipsistic

Implies that one believes that only one's own mind is sure to exist, and everything else is uncertain.

FAQs

How can I use "self-centered" in a sentence?

You can use "self-centered" to describe someone who is primarily concerned with their own interests and needs, often disregarding the needs and feelings of others. For example, "His "self-centered" behavior made it difficult for him to maintain friendships".

What's the difference between "self-centered" and "egotistical"?

"Self-centered" describes someone focused on their own needs, while "egotistical" implies an exaggerated sense of self-importance and arrogance. An egotistical person often seeks admiration, whereas a "self-centered" person may simply be unaware of others' needs.

What can I say instead of "self-centered"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "egocentric", "narcissistic", or "self-absorbed". Each word carries slightly different connotations, so choose the one that best fits the situation.

Is being "self-centered" always a negative trait?

While often perceived negatively, a degree of self-focus can be healthy for setting boundaries and prioritizing one's well-being. However, when it consistently disregards the needs and feelings of others, it becomes problematic and is typically viewed as a negative characteristic.