undue confidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undue confidence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a level of confidence that is excessive or unwarranted, often leading to poor decision-making or overestimation of one's abilities. Example: "His undue confidence in his skills led him to take unnecessary risks during the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

While his protests went unheeded Azerbaijan, with undue confidence, tried to go on the attack.

The Guardian - Sport

"I reassured him that we can fulfil his ambitions," said Bruce with undue confidence while explaining why he, and a few rival managers, should court a bothersome player at all.

The Guardian - Sport

Though investors may have put undue confidence in any human's ability to fine-tune economies, Mr. Greenspan seems to have succumbed too readily to new-era visions of productivity and may have overprepared for the possibility of disruption from the Year 2000 computer problem.

The New York Times

The situation emerging from the above picture is that – although uncertainties are an element under increasing consideration when forecasting the behaviour of a volcano – the use of intuitive-based VALS communicates undue confidence in the capability to discern the relevance of on-going volcanic processes and anticipate the future outcomes.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

These common clinical constraints should proscribe any undue confidence in responses obtained, especially monosyllabic ones.

European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience

Using this model, visual hallucinations in ACh depleted cortices could be experienced due to over processing of top down signal and the resulting undue confidence in experiencing percept in the absence of sufficient visual stimuli strength [ 5].

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Following the surprising (and perhaps undue) vote of confidence, Philbin had a chance to at least secure a winning record for the first time in his tenure and offer proof of slow, but consistent improvement.

The Guardian - Sport

The two steps show Beijing's growing determination to prevent banks from taking undue risks in lending in the confidence that the government will bail them out if they run into trouble.

The New York Times

"We know," he said, "that jurors place undue weight, for example, on the seeming confidence of an eyewitness".

The New York Times

Hard earned trust and confidence have been lost, and undue stress and aggravation have been the result.

WikiHow

The committee said it had seen no evidence of undue Saudi influence but Jenkins's appointment "undermined confidence in the impartiality of the FCO's work on such an important and contentious area".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "undue confidence", ensure the context clearly indicates why the confidence is excessive or inappropriate. Provide specific examples or evidence to support your assertion.

Common error

Avoid assuming that someone exhibiting "undue confidence" necessarily possesses the skills or knowledge to back it up. Focus on objective assessments of their abilities rather than being swayed by their outward demeanor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undue confidence" functions as a descriptive modifier, characterizing a particular type of confidence that is considered excessive or unwarranted. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is usable in written English, primarily to highlight a negative attribute.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "undue confidence" describes an excessive or unwarranted level of self-assurance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, especially within news, scientific, and formal settings. It serves to express criticism or caution against overestimation. Alternatives include "excessive confidence" and "unjustified confidence". Remember to provide context when using the phrase to clearly indicate why the confidence is considered inappropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unjustified confidence

Emphasizes the lack of valid reasons for the confidence.

excessive self-assurance

Highlights an inflated sense of one's own abilities.

overestimation of abilities

Focuses on the misjudgment of personal skills.

unwarranted certitude

Stresses the lack of justification for the certainty.

inflated ego

Highlights an exaggerated sense of self-importance.

presumptuousness

Implies boldness or arrogance based on unwarranted confidence.

foolhardiness

Suggests reckless behavior resulting from excessive confidence.

smugness

Conveys an air of excessive satisfaction with oneself.

hubris

Implies excessive pride leading to downfall.

arrogance

Highlights a sense of superiority and disdain for others.

FAQs

How can I use "undue confidence" in a sentence?

You can use "undue confidence" to describe someone's excessive or unwarranted certainty. For example: "His "undue confidence" in his abilities led him to make several mistakes."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "undue confidence"?

Alternatives include "excessive confidence", "unjustified confidence", or "overconfidence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "confidence" and "undue confidence"?

"Confidence" is a general belief in one's abilities, while "undue confidence" implies that this belief is excessive or inappropriate, often leading to negative consequences.

Is it always negative to have "undue confidence"?

Yes, the term "undue confidence" typically carries a negative connotation. It suggests that someone's self-assurance is misplaced and could lead to errors in judgment or action.