Inferiority: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is useful when describing a general sense of being less than others, often in a broad or emotional sense. It's usually related to feelings of not being as good, strong, or capable as others.

• Her sense of inferiority often held her back from taking on new challenges.
• He experienced feelings of inferiority in social situations.

This word is best for situations where there is a specific feeling of not being sufficient or lacking in a particular area or skill. It can also be used in a more technical sense when something is not up to the required standard.

• His constant sense of inadequacy made him avoid public speaking.
• The inadequacy of the response plan was evident during the crisis.

This word should be used to compare something directly to something else, indicating that it is of lower quality or rank. It can be considered disrespectful if used to describe people.

• This product is inferior to the one we bought last year.
• He felt inferior to his colleagues because he lacked experience.

This phrase is appropriate when describing a person's overall sense of self-worth or confidence. It's often used in psychological or counseling settings.

• Many teenagers struggle with low self-esteem during high school.
• Her low self-esteem was a barrier to her personal and professional growth.

Best used when describing a general sense of being lesser or less important compared to something or someone else. Often applied in social, psychological, or competitive settings.

• He had a deep-seated sense of inferiority compared to his successful siblings.
• The team's constant losses contributed to their feelings of inferiority.

Commonly used in contexts related to economic, social, or physical development. It often refers to regions, countries, or aspects of a project that lack sufficient progress or resources. It may have a slightly negative connotation.

• The underdevelopment of infrastructure in rural areas is a major issue.
• Underdevelopment in certain regions has led to widespread poverty.

Used in scientific, biological, or anatomical contexts to describe organs or structures that have lost most or all of their original function through evolution. Can also mean any small remnant of something that was once much larger or more significant.

• The human appendix is often considered a vestigial organ.
• There was only a vestigial trace of the ancient civilization left.

Typically used to describe physical areas, skills, ideas, or talents that have not been fully developed or exploited. It usually does not carry as negative a connotation as 'underdevelopment.'

• The land remains undeveloped and covered with dense forest.
• Her leadership skills are still undeveloped but show great potential.