Definition

Noun: 1. Proper respect for oneself and concern for one's own dignity, character, and worth; self-respect. 2. (Less commonly) An excessive or undue regard for oneself; self-centeredness.

Usage

The word "self-regard" is used to describe an individual's internal sense of their own value and dignity. It is a neutral-to-positive term in its primary sense, relating to healthy self-esteem and personal integrity. The less common, negative sense implying selfishness is now often covered by words like "self-absorption" or "narcissism."

Examples

• A healthy sense of self-regard prevents one from accepting unfair treatment.
• Her quiet self-regard was evident in the way she carried herself and set firm boundaries.
• (Negative sense, less common) His overwhelming self-regard made him oblivious to the needs of others.

Advanced Usage

• Psychological Context: In psychology, healthy self-regard is considered a component of emotional well-being and is linked to resilience.
• Philosophical Context: The concept relates to ideas of self-worth and ethical duty to oneself in moral philosophy.

Variants and Related Words

• Self-respect (n): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with the primary meaning of self-regard.
• Self-esteem (n): Confidence in one's own worth or abilities; overlaps with self-regard but can be more focused on a feeling of personal value.
• Self-worth (n): The sense of one's own value as a person.
• Dignity (n): The state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect; a key component of self-regard.

Synonyms

• Self-respect
• Self-esteem
• Pride (in a positive sense)
• Self-worth

Antonyms

• Self-abasement
• Self-contempt
• Humiliation
• Diffidence

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To have a sense of self-regard: To possess an awareness of one's own dignity.
  • Despite the criticism, he maintained a strong sense of self-regard.
• To act with self-regard: To behave in a manner consistent with self-respect.
  • She acted with self-regard and declined the unethical proposal.

Noun

1. the quality of being worthy of esteem or respect
   • it was beneath his dignity to cheat
   • showed his true dignity when under pressure