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Complacently: meaning, definitions and examples

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complacently

 

[ kəmˈpleɪsəntli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

attitude, behavior

Complacently describes a manner of acting or speaking characterized by a self-satisfied and uncritical attitude. When someone behaves complacently, they are often unaware of potential dangers or deficiencies, assuming everything is fine without taking necessary precautions. This can lead to a failure to notice important issues or challenges. Complacency can often be seen in individuals or groups that have become too comfortable in their current situation, leading them to overlook areas for improvement or growth.

Synonyms

content, self-satisfied, smug, unconcerned.

Examples of usage

  • She smiled complacently after finishing her project.
  • He looked complacently at his team's achievements.
  • They sat complacently, oblivious to the impending storm.

Translations

Translations of the word "complacently" in other languages:

🇵🇹 complacentemente

🇮🇳 संतोषपूर्वक

🇩🇪 selbstzufrieden

🇮🇩 dengan puas hati

🇺🇦 самозадоволено

🇵🇱 samozadowolony

🇯🇵 自己満足に

🇫🇷 avec complaisance

🇪🇸 complacientemente

🇹🇷 rahat bir şekilde

🇰🇷 자기만족적으로

🇸🇦 برضا

🇨🇿 spokojeně

🇸🇰 samoľúbne

🇨🇳 自满地

🇸🇮 samo zadovoljno

🇮🇸 sjálfsánægju

🇰🇿 қанағатпен

🇬🇪 კმაყოფილებით

🇦🇿 məmnun şəkildə

🇲🇽 complacientemente

Etymology

The word 'complacently' is derived from the adjective 'complacent,' which comes from the Latin 'complacens,' meaning 'pleasing' or 'satisfying'—a combination of 'com-' which means 'together' and 'placere,' meaning 'to please.' The term began to be used in English during the late 17th century, taking on a more negative connotation over time by emphasizing a sense of self-satisfaction that can be detrimental. Initially, it described someone who was pleased or content; however, as its usage evolved, it started to convey disdain for those who remain overly content and unaware of potential risks or failures. Hence, 'complacently' emerged as an adverb form and is often used to highlight a lack of awareness or concern in someone's demeanor or attitude.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,222, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.