superiority complex

Exaggerated sense of dominance

A superiority complex is an exaggerated sense of one's own importance or abilities, often masking deep insecurity.

The term comes from psychology, where it describes overcompensation for feelings of inadequacy: His constant bragging about his credentials suggests a superiority complex.

In casual use, it simply means acting like you're better than everyone else.

psychology

narcissism

Excessive admiration of oneself

ego defensePsychological self-protection mechanism
delusion of grandeurFalse belief of importance
self-aggrandizementInflating one's own status

cognitive distortion · Dunning-Kruger · personality disorder · megalomania · false self · psychological defense · therapy · self-awareness

arrogance

condescending

Superior and dismissive manner

patronizingTreating someone as inferior
haughtyDisdainfully proud
smugExcessively self-satisfied

disdainful · contemptuous · pompous · snobbish · self-important · overbearing · imperious · high-and-mighty · looking down · belittling

insecurity

overcompensation

Excessive counterbalancing reaction

fragile egoEasily damaged self-esteem
defensivenessResistance to perceived attack
self-doubtUncertainty about oneself

inadequacy · projection · impostor syndrome · validation-seeking · bravado · false confidence · compensation · vulnerability · shame · thin-skinned

dominance

alpha

First Greek letter

supremacyHighest rank or power
one-upmanshipQuest to surpass others
power playStrategic leverage attempt

pecking order · status-seeking · hierarchy · preeminence · ascendancy · control · mastery · top dog · competition · territorial

superiority complex

narcissism

condescending

overcompensation

alpha

superiority complex

Opposites

Categories

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