self-important

/'selfim'pɔ:tənt/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "self-important."

Definition:

"Self-important" is an adjective used to describe someone who thinks they are very important or valuable, often too much so. This feeling is usually not justified or deserved, meaning that they see themselves as more important than they really are.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "self-important" to describe a person’s attitude or behavior. It often has a negative connotation, suggesting arrogance or a lack of humility.

Example:

• "The self-important manager always insists that his ideas are the best, even when others have better suggestions."

Advanced Usage:

In more formal or literary contexts, you might find "self-important" used to critique individuals in positions of power or authority who act as if they are above others.

Word Variants:

• Self-importance (noun): The quality of being self-important.
  • Example: "Her self-importance made it difficult for her to accept constructive criticism."
• Self-importantly (adverb): In a manner that shows self-importance.
  • Example: "He spoke self-importantly during the meeting, ignoring others’ contributions."

Different Meanings:

• The core meaning is about feeling overly important. However, it is important to note that "self-importance" is generally viewed negatively, as it implies arrogance.

Synonyms:

• Arrogant
• Conceited
• Haughty
• Pompous
• Vainglorious

Idioms:

While there might not be a direct idiom that uses "self-important," expressions like "full of oneself" or "thinking highly of oneself" convey a similar meaning.

Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific phrasal verbs that directly relate to "self-important," but you might use phrases like "look down on others" to describe the attitude of someone who is self-important.

Conclusion:

In summary, "self-important" describes someone who has an inflated sense of their own importance. It’s often used to highlight arrogance and a lack of awareness of others' contributions or feelings. Remember to use it in contexts where someone’s attitude is overly prideful or dismissive of others!

Academic

Adjective

1. having or showing feelings of unwarranted importance out of overbearing pride
   • an arrogant official
   • arrogant claims
   • chesty as a peacock

Synonyms

• arrogant
• chesty