superiority complex

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "superiority complex" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to an exaggerated feeling of superiority over others, which often stems from deep-rooted insecurity. For example: "John had a superiority complex, so he always tried to prove his worth by belittling others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"British scepticism comes from a superiority complex.

The Economist

Then you'd have a superiority complex.

The New Yorker

Not that there's anything much to justify this superiority complex.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Obama did not break the superiority complex of white people.

The Guardian - Opinion

Giles Helding was first off the mark: "Superiority complex?

The Guardian - Sport

These people with the sense of entitlement or superiority complex.

The Guardian - Sport

"1977" also captured The-Dream's superiority complex about his craft.

The New York Times - Arts

These communities can give us insecure teenagers a superiority complex.

The New York Times

"In the seventh grade, I was accused of having a superiority complex," Midler continues.

The New York Times - Magazine

Pierson wrote in his diary that he was psychopathic with a superiority complex.

The Guardian

The first is a superiority complex, the sense that your particular group is exceptional.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "superiority complex" to describe a persistent and pervasive pattern of feeling superior to others, rather than a temporary or isolated incident.

Common error

Avoid attributing a "superiority complex" solely to confidence. The term often implies underlying insecurities or a need to compensate for perceived inadequacies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "superiority complex" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig confirms its usability, indicating that it's grammatically acceptable and widely understood. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, the term describes a psychological trait.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Arts

14%

Lifestyle

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "superiority complex" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an exaggerated belief in one's own superiority, as verified by Ludwig. It functions to describe a psychological condition and is used in neutral register across various sources, most frequently in news and media. While alternatives such as "inflated ego" or "sense of entitlement" exist, "superiority complex" carries specific connotations of underlying insecurity. Ludwig examples show that the phrase is widely understood and usable in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

air of superiority

Captures the outward display of feeling better than others.

inflated ego

Emphasizes the exaggerated sense of self-importance and pride.

overweening pride

Implies an excessive and arrogant form of pride.

condescending attitude

Highlights the patronizing and disdainful manner in which someone treats others.

hubris

Implies excessive pride or self-confidence that leads to a downfall.

patronizing behavior

Highlights the act of treating others as if they are less intelligent or capable.

sense of entitlement

Focuses on the belief that one deserves special treatment or privileges.

smugness

Conveys a sense of excessive satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements.

holier-than-thou attitude

Suggests a moral superiority and judgmental view of others.

grandiose delusions

Suggests an unrealistic sense of superiority, often associated with mental health conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "superiority complex" in a sentence?

You can use "superiority complex" to describe someone who acts as if they are better than others. For example, "His constant boasting revealed a deep-seated "superiority complex"".

What is the difference between a "superiority complex" and confidence?

While confidence is a healthy belief in one's abilities, a "superiority complex" involves an exaggerated sense of self-importance, often masking underlying insecurities.

What are some signs of a "superiority complex"?

Signs of a "superiority complex" include constant boasting, belittling others, difficulty accepting criticism, and a need to always be right.

What can I say instead of "superiority complex"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "inflated ego", "condescending attitude", or "sense of entitlement".