conceited
excessively proud of oneself
In more detail
1. (adjective) having too much pride in your own abilities, appearance, or achievements; arrogant
2. (adjective) showing or expressing excessive pride or self-importance
Examples
- 1. He's so conceited that he thinks he's better than everyone else at work.
- 2. The conceited remark about her intelligence annoyed her friends.
How to use conceited
Conceited is used to criticize someone who overestimates their own worth or importance, especially regarding looks, talent, or social status. It is distinctly negative and more literary or formal than slang alternatives like 'stuck-up.' The word often implies an unattractive arrogance that alienates others.
Common phrases
- conceited smile
- conceited person
- conceited fool
- conceited remarks
- unbearably conceited
- rather conceited
Synonyms
arrogant · vain · smug · self-important · egotistical
Opposites
humble · modest · self-effacing
Word family
conceit (noun) · conceitedly (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse conceited with conceived (past tense of conceive), which means a completely different thing. Also, conceited is about personal pride, not just having confidence, which is neutral.
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