Complacency Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
complacency
[kษmหpleษชsษnsi ]
Definitions
feeling of satisfaction
Complacency is a feeling of quiet pleasure or security, often while unaware of some potential danger, defect, or the like.
Synonyms
contentment, self-satisfaction, smugness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| complacency |
Use in situations where someone is overly satisfied with themselves or their situation, often leading to a lack of effort or awareness of potential dangers or defects. It generally has a negative connotation.
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| contentment |
Appropriate when referring to a state of happiness and satisfaction with life, without any desire for more. It has a positive or neutral connotation.
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| self-satisfaction |
Suitable for describing someone who is pleased with their own achievements or abilities, often to the point of arrogance. It can have a neutral or slightly negative connotation depending on the context.
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| smugness |
Best used when describing someone who is excessively pleased with themselves, often irritating others. It has a strong negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- His complacency was shattered when he realized he had been living a lie all this time.
- She was lulled into complacency by the peaceful surroundings, not realizing the imminent threat.
self-satisfaction
Complacency can also refer to a feeling of self-satisfaction, especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| complacency |
When someone is too comfortable with their current situation and doesn't see the need for improvement.
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| conceit |
When someone has an excessive sense of their own importance or abilities. This often has a negative connotation.
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| satisfaction |
When someone feels contentment or pleasure due to a fulfilled desire or achieved goal.
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| pride |
When someone feels deep pleasure or satisfaction as a result of their own achievements, qualities, or possessions. This can be positive or negative depending on the context.
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Examples of usage
- His complacency prevented him from striving for improvement.
- The team's complacency led to their downfall in the competition.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Complacency can lead to a lack of motivation for self-improvement, as individuals may ignore areas that need growth.
- Studies show that complacency can result in decreased performance, especially in competitive environments.
- This state of mind can create a cycle where people fail to recognize risks or potential failures ahead.
Business
- In the business world, complacency can be detrimental; companies that stop innovating may lose competitive edge.
- The phrase 'complacency kills' is often used in business to warn against the dangers of becoming too comfortable or satisfied with current success.
- Many businesses conduct regular assessments to counteract complacency and ensure ongoing improvement.
Culture
- Complacency is often depicted in literature as a flaw of characters who ignore warning signs leading to their downfall.
- In modern media, complacency can be critiqued as a societal issue where people take their freedoms and privileges for granted.
- The theme of complacency versus vigilance is a common one in films, showcasing characters who either thrive or fail based on their awareness.
Science
- Research in behavioral science highlights complacency as a factor that can impact safety practices, such as in workplaces or on the road.
- Cognitive dissonance often plays a role in reinforcing complacent attitudes; people may refuse to believe evidence of a problem to maintain their comfort.
- In ecology, complacency among species can lead to vulnerability; those that adapt less to environmental changes risk extinction.
Origin of 'complacency'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'complacentia,' meaning 'satisfaction' or 'pleasure'.
- It entered the English language in the early 17th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on individual fulfillment.
- The term's meaning has shifted, now often highlighting the negative side of being overly content.
The word 'complacency' originates from the Latin word 'complacentia', meaning 'satisfaction'. It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. Over time, its meaning evolved to include a sense of self-satisfaction and unawareness of potential dangers.