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Overconfidence: meaning, definitions and examples

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overconfidence

[ ˌoʊvərˈkɑnfɪdəns ]

Noun

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in psychology

Overconfidence refers to a biased way of thinking that makes people believe they are better and more capable than they actually are. It can lead to poor decision-making and risky behaviors.

Synonyms

arrogance, conceit, hubris.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
overconfidence	Used when someone is too sure of their abilities or success, potentially underestimating risks or challenges. His overconfidence led him to believe he could complete the hike without a map, but he got lost. She approached the exam with overconfidence and didn't study enough, resulting in a poor grade.
arrogance	Implies a strong sense of superiority and lack of respect for others, often with a dismissive or condescending attitude. His arrogance makes it difficult to work with him, as he never listens to anyone else's ideas. The manager's arrogance alienated the entire team.
hubris	Describes exaggerated self-confidence or pride that often leads to a downfall or mistake. It's a more formal and literary term. The character's hubris was his tragic flaw, leading to his ultimate demise. In Greek tragedies, hubris is often the hero's undoing.
conceit	Refers to an excessive pride in oneself and one's abilities. It often suggests being vain or self-centered. Her conceit was evident in the way she constantly talked about her accomplishments. His conceit prevented him from seeing his own flaws.

Examples of usage

His overconfidence in his abilities led to his downfall.
The team's overconfidence caused them to underestimate their opponents.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

Excessive confidence in one's own abilities or judgment, especially when it is not justified.

Synonyms

cockiness, presumptuousness, self-assurance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
overconfidence	When someone has too much confidence and it leads them to make mistakes or underestimate challenges. Often used in a neutral or slightly negative sense. His overconfidence cost the team the game Overconfidence in exams can lead to careless errors
cockiness	When someone is overly confident in a way that is boastful and irritating to others. This word usually has a negative connotation. Her cockiness made it difficult for people to work with her Despite his talent, his cockiness turned many people against him
presumptuousness	When someone is too bold in a way that oversteps social boundaries or shows lack of respect. It has a negative and formal tone. His presumptuousness in giving unsolicited advice was bothersome She was reprimanded for her presumptuousness in assuming she could speak for the entire group
self-assurance	When someone has a stable and positive confidence in their own abilities. This word carries a positive connotation. Her self-assurance helped her navigate through tough situations He spoke with self-assurance that inspired others to follow him

Examples of usage

Her overconfidence in her knowledge of the subject made her fail the exam.
Overconfidence can sometimes blind people to their own limitations.

Translations

Translations of the word "overconfidence" in other languages:

🇵🇹 excesso de confiança

🇮🇳 अतिविश्वास

🇩🇪 Überheblichkeit

🇮🇩 kepercayaan diri berlebihan

🇺🇦 надмірна впевненість

🇵🇱 nadmierna pewność siebie

🇯🇵 過剰な自信

🇫🇷 excès de confiance

🇪🇸 exceso de confianza

🇹🇷 aşırı güven

🇰🇷 과도한 자신감

🇸🇦 الثقة المفرطة

🇨🇿 přílišná sebejistota

🇸🇰 nadmerná dôvera

🇨🇳 过度自信

🇸🇮 prekomerna samozavest

🇮🇸 of mikið sjálfstraust

🇰🇿 шамадан тыс сенімділік

🇬🇪 ჭარბი თავდაჯერებულობა

🇦🇿 həddindən artıq özünə inam

🇲🇽 exceso de confianza

Etymology

The term 'overconfidence' originated in the field of psychology, where researchers studied the phenomenon of people overestimating their abilities and the accuracy of their judgments. It has been a subject of interest in various fields, including behavioral economics and decision theory. The concept of overconfidence highlights the importance of self-awareness and humility in avoiding pitfalls associated with excessive confidence.