self-satisfied

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "self-satisfied" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is smugly happy with their own accomplishments or abilities. For example, "The self-satisfied businessman was proud of his success and looked down on those who had not achieved as much."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Perfectly, perfectly self-satisfied.

The New York Times - Magazine

Or self-satisfied.

The New York Times

I was super self-satisfied".

The New York Times - Sports

And the more self-satisfied.

The New Yorker

He breaks into a self-satisfied grin.

Independent

A standard self-satisfied industry personage?" "Who?

The New Yorker

These people are already dangerously self-satisfied.

The New York Times

What it's not is self-satisfied.

The New York Times

The self-satisfied lurch in Trump's neck.

The Guardian - Opinion

The self-satisfied beauty of it.

The New Yorker

It is the most self-satisfied performance imaginable.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "self-satisfied" to accurately depict characters or individuals who display an excessive and often unjustified sense of self-importance. This can add depth and complexity to your writing.

Common error

While "self-satisfied" is a useful descriptor, avoid overusing it, as it can make your writing repetitive. Consider using synonyms like "smug" or "complacent" to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self-satisfied" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe a state of being pleased with oneself, often to an excessive or irritating degree. As Ludwig AI describes, the phrase is grammatically correct, and many examples show its usage in describing people's expressions, tones, or behaviors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "self-satisfied" is a grammatically sound adjective widely used to depict someone excessively pleased with themselves, often bordering on arrogance. As Ludwig AI confirms, its correct usage is prevalent across various contexts, notably in News & Media. Related terms include "smug" and "complacent". When using "self-satisfied", remember to avoid overuse and be mindful of its negative connotation, as it's rarely appropriate in a positive context. Common errors include misinterpreting its meaning as simply "confident", when it implies a degree of unjustified smugness. Ludwig's examples consistently illustrate its function in criticizing or disapproving of an individual's attitude.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smug

Single word alternative conveying excessive pride.

complacent

Suggests a sense of security and lack of motivation to improve.

self-contented

Focuses on inner satisfaction without necessarily implying arrogance.

smugly content

Combination that emphasizes both smugness and satisfaction.

pleased with oneself

Emphasizes the personal satisfaction someone feels.

conceited

Highlights an exaggerated sense of self-importance.

arrogant

Implies a belief in one's superiority over others.

pompous

Suggests an excessive display of self-importance.

stuck-up

Informal term for someone who is arrogant and snobbish.

superior

Suggests a belief that one is better than others, leading to self-satisfaction.

FAQs

How to use "self-satisfied" in a sentence?

You can use "self-satisfied" to describe someone who is overly pleased with themselves. For example, "The "self-satisfied businessman" boasted about his success".

What words are similar to "self-satisfied"?

Alternatives to "self-satisfied" include "smug", "complacent", and "self-contented". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever appropriate to use "self-satisfied" in a positive context?

Generally, "self-satisfied" has a negative connotation, implying excessive pride and smugness. It is rarely used in a positive context. Consider using "proud" or "content" if you want to express satisfaction without the negative implications.

What is the difference between "self-satisfied" and "confident"?

"Confident" describes a belief in one's abilities, while "self-satisfied" suggests an excessive and often unwarranted contentment with oneself, sometimes to the point of arrogance. Confidence is generally seen as a positive trait, whereas being self-satisfied is usually viewed negatively.