self-denigrating
Putting yourself down
Self-denigrating describes speech or behavior that disparages oneself—belittling one's abilities, appearance, or worth: His self-denigrating humor made everyone uncomfortable.
The term often appears in psychological contexts, where persistent self-denigration may signal low self-esteem or depression.
Sometimes self-deprecating is preferred as a softer alternative, though the meanings overlap.
Lacking self-assurance
- inferiority complexChronic sense of inadequacy
- shamePainful awareness of failure
- inadequacyState of being insufficient
- unworthinessLack of merit
imposter syndrome · perfectionism · anxiety · depression · worthlessness · apologetic · meek
False modesty masking pride
- false modestyPretend self-deprecation
- downplayingDiminishing perceived significance
- fishing for complimentsSoliciting praise indirectly
- approval-seekingDesiring others' favorable opinion
people-pleasing · submissive · deferential · putting oneself down · dismissive · undervaluing · modesty · unassuming
Hostility toward high achievers
- collectivistAdvocate for group primacy
- face-savingProtecting one's dignity
- indirect communicationConveying meaning through suggestion
- honor cultureSystem valuing defended reputation
group harmony · social conformity · understating · communal values
insecure
Lacking self-assurance
- inferiority complexChronic sense of inadequacy
- shamePainful awareness of failure
- inadequacyState of being insufficient
unworthiness · imposter syndrome · perfectionism · anxiety · depression · worthlessness · apologetic · meek
humble-bragging
False modesty masking pride
- false modestyPretend self-deprecation
- downplayingDiminishing perceived significance
- fishing for complimentsSoliciting praise indirectly
approval-seeking · people-pleasing · submissive · deferential · putting oneself down · dismissive · undervaluing · modesty · unassuming · disarming
tall poppy syndrome
Hostility toward high achievers
- collectivistAdvocate for group primacy
- face-savingProtecting one's dignity
- indirect communicationConveying meaning through suggestion
honor culture · group harmony · social conformity · understating · communal values
self-denigratingself-aggrandizing
Exalting one's own status
boastful · bragging · self-glorifying · self-congratulatory · vainglorious
self-denigratingboastful
Given to self-praise
braggadocious · vainglorious · conceited · arrogant · egotistical
self-denigratingself-confident
Believing in one's capabilities
self-assured · self-loving · self-respecting · secure · self-satisfied
self, denigrate, denigrates, denigrated, denigrating, denigration, selves, selfhood, selfless