arrogance
Arrogance refers to an offensive display of superiority or self-importance, often involving an exaggerated sense of one's own abilities or status. It typically manifests as a lack of respect for others' opinions and a belief that one is inherently better than their peers.
Examples
3 of 5His arrogance makes it difficult for him to maintain long-term friendships.
His arrogance makes it difficult for him to maintain long-term friendships.
The diplomat’s arrogance during the negotiations led to a complete breakdown in international communication.
The diplomat’s arrogance during the negotiations led to a complete breakdown in international communication.
I can't stand her arrogance; she acts like she's the only one who knows how to do anything.
I can't stand her arrogance; she acts like she's the only one who knows how to do anything.
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'Arrow-gance': Someone with arrogance thinks they are as sharp and fast as an arrow, always looking down at the target from above.
Quick Quiz
Despite his brilliance, his ____ made it impossible for his colleagues to collaborate with him effectively.
Correct!
The correct answer is: arrogance
Examples
His arrogance makes it difficult for him to maintain long-term friendships.
everydayHis arrogance makes it difficult for him to maintain long-term friendships.
The diplomat’s arrogance during the negotiations led to a complete breakdown in international communication.
formalThe diplomat’s arrogance during the negotiations led to a complete breakdown in international communication.
I can't stand her arrogance; she acts like she's the only one who knows how to do anything.
informalI can't stand her arrogance; she acts like she's the only one who knows how to do anything.
Historical scholarship suggests that the perceived arrogance of the ruling elite was a primary catalyst for the revolution.
academicHistorical scholarship suggests that the perceived arrogance of the ruling elite was a primary catalyst for the revolution.
The CEO's arrogance blinded the company to the obvious flaws in their new market strategy.
businessThe CEO's arrogance blinded the company to the obvious flaws in their new market strategy.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
the height of arrogance
the height of arrogance
arrogance of power
arrogance of power
stinking with arrogance
stinking with arrogance
Often Confused With
Confidence is a positive belief in one's abilities, while arrogance is an exaggerated and rude sense of superiority over others.
Usage Notes
Arrogance is almost exclusively a pejorative term. It is used to describe a personality flaw rather than a temporary state of mind.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use the adjective 'arrogant' when they need the noun 'arrogance,' such as saying 'He has a lot of arrogant' instead of 'He has a lot of arrogance.'
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'Arrow-gance': Someone with arrogance thinks they are as sharp and fast as an arrow, always looking down at the target from above.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'arrogare', meaning 'to claim for oneself', combined with the suffix '-ance' to denote a state or quality.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many Western cultures, arrogance is viewed as a major social barrier and is frequently contrasted with the valued trait of humility.
Quick Quiz
Despite his brilliance, his ____ made it impossible for his colleagues to collaborate with him effectively.
Correct!
The correct answer is: arrogance
Related Grammar Rules
Related Words
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analytical
C1Relating to or using analysis or logical reasoning to understand something by breaking it down into its constituent parts. It describes a systematic approach to problem-solving and the ability to evaluate information critically.
approach
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authorize
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contextual
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contract
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