Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Superiority: meaning, definitions and examples

🥇
Add to dictionary

superiority

 

[s(j)uːˌpɪəˈrɪɒrɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in competition

The quality or state of being higher in rank, importance, or quality than others.

Synonyms

dominance, preeminence, supremacy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
superiority

This word is generally used to indicate someone or something is better than others in a specific way. It is used in both personal and professional contexts.

  • Her superiority in academic performance was evident.
  • The team's superiority over their rivals was clear after the game.
supremacy

Refers to the state of being supreme or having the highest status, often used in serious or formal contexts. It can carry a negative connotation if it implies exclusion or oppression of others.

  • The military's supremacy in technology gave them an advantage.
  • The doctrine of racial supremacy is widely condemned.
dominance

This term is often used in contexts involving control or power over others, such as competitive environments, sports, or business. It can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • The company's dominance in the market made it hard for new entrants.
  • The player showed dominance on the field with his exceptional skills.
preeminence

Used to describe someone or something that is outstanding or exceptional in a particular field or activity, often with an esteemed or prestigious tone.

  • The university is known for its preeminence in scientific research.
  • Her preeminence in classical music is recognized worldwide.

Examples of usage

  • Her superiority in the field of science is widely recognized.
  • The team's superiority over their rivals was evident in the final match.
Context #2 | Noun

attitude

An attitude of considering oneself to be better than others.

Synonyms

arrogance, haughtiness, snobbishness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
superiority

Use this word when describing a genuine state of being better or having an advantage over others, often in a skill or attribute. It can have a neutral or positive connotation, depending on the context.

  • John's superiority in math was evident from an early age
  • The team's superiority in strategy led them to victory
arrogance

This word should be used when describing someone who has an inflated sense of their own importance or abilities, often to the point of being disrespectful or dismissive towards others. It has a negative connotation.

  • Her arrogance made it difficult for her to make friends
  • Mark's arrogance was evident when he refused to consider others' opinions
haughtiness

This term is appropriate when referring to someone who behaves in a superior or disdainful manner, often looking down on others. It has a negative connotation.

  • His haughtiness was off-putting to his colleagues
  • She answered with such haughtiness that everyone in the room felt uncomfortable
snobbishness

Use this word to describe a behavior where someone looks down on others, usually because they believe they have superior taste, education, or social status. It carries a negative connotation.

  • Her snobbishness was evident when she refused to dine anywhere but the fanciest restaurants
  • His snobbishness alienated him from his old friends

Examples of usage

  • His superiority complex often alienates his colleagues.
  • She always speaks with a tone of superiority.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'superior,' which means 'higher' or 'greater.'
  • It has roots in the Greek word 'huper,' meaning 'over' or 'above,' reflecting the concept of being above others.
  • The term has evolved over centuries, but its core meaning of being elevated or better has remained.

Psychology

  • Feelings of superiority can impact self-esteem, where individuals may overestimate their abilities compared to others.
  • The 'superiority complex' is a psychological term for someone who has an exaggerated opinion of their own worth.
  • Sometimes, those who feel superior may actually feel insecure and project their feelings onto others.

Society

  • Superiority can manifest in social dynamics, affecting relationships and social hierarchies in groups.
  • Cultural narratives around success and failure often reinforce feelings of superiority or inferiority among individuals.
  • Historical events often illustrate how superiority has been used to justify unequal treatment of different groups.

Philosophy

  • Various philosophical debates consider if anyone can truly be superior, suggesting that worth is subjective.
  • Theories like Nietzsche’s 'will to power' discuss superiority as a driving force for human behavior.
  • Philosophers often explore the moral implications of superiority, questioning the ethics involved in claiming to be better.

Pop Culture

  • Films often depict characters grappling with feelings of superiority, exploring themes of arrogance and downfall.
  • Reality TV shows exploit the concept of superiority by positioning contestants against one another.
  • Popular music frequently touches on ideas of being superior, serving as an anthem for confidence or self-assuredness.

Translations

Translations of the word "superiority" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superioridade

🇮🇳 श्रेष्ठता

🇩🇪 Überlegenheit

🇮🇩 keunggulan

🇺🇦 перевага

🇵🇱 przewaga

🇯🇵 優越

🇫🇷 supériorité

🇪🇸 superioridad

🇹🇷 üstünlük

🇰🇷 우월

🇸🇦 تفوق

🇨🇿 převaha

🇸🇰 prevaha

🇨🇳 优越

🇸🇮 premoč

🇮🇸 yfirburðir

🇰🇿 үстемдік

🇬🇪 უპირატესობა

🇦🇿 üstünlük

🇲🇽 superioridad

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,778 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.