Arrogance: meaning, definitions and examples

Arrogance is usually used to describe someone who has an excessive sense of their own importance, often looking down on others. It carries a negative connotation.

• His arrogance made him unpopular among his colleagues
• She was criticized for her arrogance after making dismissive comments

Haughtiness refers to an attitude of superiority and disdain towards others. It is used to describe someone who acts in a condescending manner. This term also has a negative vibe.

• Her haughtiness made it difficult for her to make friends
• He walked into the room with an air of haughtiness that put everyone off

Pride can be positive or negative depending on the context. It often means a sense of satisfaction derived from one's own achievements or those of others close to oneself. However, it can also refer to an exaggerated sense of self-worth leading to arrogance.

• She felt a great sense of pride when her son graduated with honors
• His pride prevented him from asking for help even when he needed it

Conceit defines a person's excessively high opinion of their own worth or ability, often leading to an overestimation of their talents. It has a negative tone as well.

• His conceit was evident when he claimed to be the best player on the team without any doubt
• The author's conceit is apparent in the way she writes about her own work

Vanity implies an excessive belief in one's own attractiveness or abilities. It has a negative connotation and often relates to concerns about physical appearance.

• Her vanity was evident in the way she constantly checked her reflection in the mirror
• His vanity made him susceptible to flattery and insincerity

Arrogance implies an overbearing pride and a sense of superiority. It is often considered negative and used to describe someone who thinks they are better than others.

• His arrogance made him many enemies at work
• She was known for her arrogance, never listening to others' opinions

Hubris is a specific type of arrogance, often used in literature and historical contexts. It usually means excessive pride that leads to downfall or negative consequences.

• The king's hubris led to his eventual defeat
• In many Greek tragedies, the protagonist's hubris brings about their tragic end

Presumption refers to overstepping boundaries or making assumptions about things and people without proper authority. It can be considered rude or inappropriate.

• Her presumption that she could take over the project offended her team
• He was punished for his presumption in questioning the manager's decisions

Imperiousness suggests a commanding presence and a high-handed attitude. It is typically used to describe someone who is domineering and expects obedience from others.

• Her imperiousness alienated her colleagues
• He spoke with an air of imperiousness, as if no one could challenge him

Pomposity is often associated with a self-important attitude and using fancy language to impress others. It is usually seen as humorous or mocking in context.

• His pomposity made him the subject of many jokes
• The speech was full of pomposity, lacking any real substance