English Synonyms for Arrogance and Selfishness Vocabulary Words – Online Quiz!

aggrandize (verb) /əˈɡrandʌɪz/
Meaning: This can involve exaggerating someone's accomplishments or qualities, or presenting them in a more favorable light than is warranted.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to aggrandize?
Options: exaggerate; minimize; belittle; downplay
Answer: exaggerate
Synonyms: applaud; boost; canonize; commend; elevate; ennoble; exalt; glorify; honor; promote
Example: "The dictator tried to aggrandize himself by commissioning statues and portraits in his honor all over the country."

argumentative (adjective) /ˌɑr gyəˈmɛn tə tɪv/
Meaning: It suggests a characteristic of being confrontational or prone to entering into verbal or written confrontations with others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to argumentative?
Options: contentious; agreeable; amicable; conciliatory
Answer: contentious
Synonyms: belligerent; combative; confrontational; contentious; contrary; controversial; disputatious; dissenting; polemical; pugnacious; quarrelsome
Example: "She was argumentative, always ready for a lively debate at the drop of a hat."

arrogance (noun) /ˈær ə gəns/
Meaning: It denotes an attitude or behavior characterized by excessive pride, haughtiness, or a belief in one's own superiority over others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to arrogance?
Options: haughtiness; humility; modesty; diffidence
Answer: haughtiness
Synonyms: conceit; disdain; egotism; haughtiness; hubris; pomposity; pretentiousness; pride; smugness; snobbery; superiority
Example: "His arrogance makes it hard to work with him on the project."

arrogant (adjective) /ˈarəɡ(ə)nt/
Meaning: It is characterized by a sense of entitlement and an overestimation of one's own abilities or accomplishments.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to arrogant?
Options: conceited; humble; modest; unassuming
Answer: conceited
Synonyms: assuming; cocky; conceited; contemptuous; disdainful; egotistical; haughty; imperious; insolent
Example: "He's often seen as arrogant due to his condescending tone."

arrogate (verb) /ˈarəɡeɪt/
Meaning: It is a verb that is usually associated with acts of seizing authority, power, or privileges that are not rightfully one's own.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to arrogate?
Options: usurp; relinquish; surrender; cede
Answer: usurp
Synonyms: appropriate; assume; commandeer; confiscate; demand; expropriate; occupy; seize; usurp
Example: "Some politicians arrogate power without considering the consequences."

avaricious (adjective) /ˌavəˈrɪʃəs/
Meaning: It is often used to describe a person who is excessively or rapaciously eager to acquire more money or possessions, often at the expense of others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to avaricious?
Options: greedy; generous; charitable; selfless
Answer: greedy
Synonyms: acquisitive; covetous; grasping; greedy; materialistic; mercenary; miserly; rapacious
Example: "They were avaricious property developers who had no regard for residents in the community."

bluster (verb) /ˈblʌstə/
Meaning: It is characterized by a show of force or noise, and is often accompanied by empty or exaggerated threats.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to bluster?
Options: boast; whisper; speak softly; mutter
Answer: boast
Synonyms: threaten; bully; intimidate; browbeat; swagger; roar; bellow; huff; puff; rant; rave
Example: "The politician likes to bluster during his speeches to appear strong."

brag (verb) /bræg/
Meaning: It involves openly and arrogantly promoting oneself, often with the intention of impressing others or gaining admiration.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to brag?
Options: boast; humble; modest; self-deprecating
Answer: boast
Synonyms: boast; crow; exaggerate; flaunt; gloat; parade; puff; swagger; swank; trumpet; vaunt
Example: "He loves to brag about his accomplishments."

braggart (noun) /ˈbræg ərt/
Meaning: Such individuals often exaggerate their accomplishments and may try to make others feel inferior by talking down to them or belittling their achievements.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to braggart?
Options: boaster; humble; modest; self-deprecating
Answer: boaster
Synonyms: bighead; blowfish; blowhard; boaster; bragger; egotist; exhibitionist; gasconader; loudmouth; peacock; swaggerer; vaunter
Example: "The braggart at the party wouldn't stop talking about his achievements."

bumptious (adjective) /ˈbʌm(p)ʃəs/
Meaning: Someone who is bumptious tends to overestimate their own importance, skills, or abilities and may act in a way that suggests they believe they are superior to others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to bumptious?
Options: arrogant; humble; modest; unassuming
Answer: arrogant
Synonyms: arrogant; boastful; brash; cocky; conceited; domineering; egotistic; egotistical; forward; haughty; overbearing; overconfident
Example: "The bumptious politician boasted about his achievements at every opportunity."

cavalier (adjective) /ˌkavəˈlɪə/
Meaning: When we characterize an individual as cavalier, we suggest that they are often nonchalant, carefree, or even reckless in their approach, often disregarding the potential consequences of their actions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to cavalier?
Options: dismissive; concerned; attentive; careful
Answer: dismissive
Synonyms: arrogant; careless; casual; disdainful; dismissive; domineering; haughty; imperious; indifferent; insensitive; insolent; insouciant
Example: "The young nobleman had a cavalier attitude towards his responsibilities."

cockiness (noun) /ˈkɒkɪnɪs/
Meaning: It denotes a sense of overconfidence or a display of superiority, often accompanied by a disregard for others' opinions or a tendency to boast about one's accomplishments.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to cockiness?
Options: arrogance; humility; modesty; shyness
Answer: arrogance
Synonyms: arrogance; boastfulness; braggadocio; conceit; haughtiness; hubris; overconfidence; smugness; superiority; swagger; vanity
Example: "His cockiness became evident as he boasted about his achievements to everyone."

conceit (noun) /kənˈsiːt/
Meaning: The noun "conceit" has several meanings, but one of its primary definitions refers to When someone possesses a conceit, they tend to overestimate their own qualities and achievements, often to the point of vanity or arrogance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to conceit?
Options: vanity; humility; modesty; self-deprecation
Answer: vanity
Synonyms: arrogance; boastfulness; complacency; egotism; haughtiness; hubris; narcissism; pride; smugness; swagger; vainglory; vanity
Example: "Her artistic conceit knew no bounds as she displayed her latest masterpiece."

condescend (verb) /ˌkɒn dəˈsɛnd/
Meaning: When someone condescends, they adopt an attitude of looking down upon others, belittling or underestimating them due to a perceived difference in social status, intelligence, or competence.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to condescend?
Options: patronize; respect; honor; revere
Answer: patronize
Synonyms: belittle; demean; deride; despise; mock; patronize; ridicule; scorn; snub; underestimate
Example: "The celebrity chef tends to condescend when explaining basic cooking techniques."

condescending (adjective) /ˌkɒndɪˈsɛndɪŋ/
Meaning: It often implies that the person who is being condescending believes that they are intellectually or socially superior to the person or group they are interacting with.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to condescending?
Options: patronizing; respectful; appreciative; admiring
Answer: patronizing
Synonyms: arrogant; contemptuous; disdainful; haughty; impudent; lofty; patronizing; scornful; snobbish; snooty; supercilious; superior
Example: "His condescending tone during the presentation annoyed the entire team."

domineering (adjective) /ˌdɒm əˈnɪər ɪŋ/
Meaning: It suggests an individual who imposes their will, desires, or opinions on others without considering their input or needs.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to domineering?
Options: overbearing; submissive; compliant; yielding
Answer: overbearing
Synonyms: authoritarian; autocratic; bossy; commanding; controlling; dictatorial; imperious; oppressive; overbearing; overcontrolling; tyrannical
Example: "His domineering personality made it difficult for others to express their opinions."

egocentric (adjective) /ˌi goʊˈsɛn trɪk/
Meaning: It refers to a self-centered or self-focused perspective, where one perceives the world primarily through the lens of their own experiences and concerns.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to egocentric?
Options: self-centered; altruistic; selfless; other-oriented
Answer: self-centered
Synonyms: conceited; egoistic; egoistical; individualist; insular; inward; narcissistic; prideful; selfish; solipsistic; vain
Example: "The egocentric politician only cared about advancing his own career."

entitled (adjective) /ɪnˈtʌɪtld/
Meaning: It can also refer to a feeling of being deserving of special treatment or attention due to one's perceived status or accomplishments.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to entitled?
Options: privileged; unentitled; undeserving; humble
Answer: privileged
Synonyms: allowed; approved; authorized; empowered; enabled; permitted; privileged; validated
Example: "After years of hard work, she felt entitled to a long, relaxing vacation."

entitlement (noun) /ɛnˈtaɪ tl mənt/
Meaning: It is a perception that one is inherently entitled to certain advantages or treatment without necessarily earning or deserving them.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to entitlement?
Options: privilege; disadvantage; disqualification; exclusion
Answer: privilege
Synonyms: advantage; authority; birthright; claim; dispensation; franchise; immunity; license; permission; prerogative; privilege; right
Example: "The entitlement of free speech is a fundamental right in democratic societies."

gall (noun) /gɔl/
Meaning: It signifies an act or statement that goes against social norms or expectations, often with a tinge of disrespect.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gall?
Options: audacity; timidity; meekness; respectfulness
Answer: audacity
Synonyms: acrimony; audacity; bitterness; blister; cheek; choler; impudence; irritant; nerve; rancor; resentment; spite
Example: "The criticism she received from her colleagues filled her with gall."

gloat (verb) /ɡləʊt/
Meaning: When someone gloats, they revel in their own superiority, often by bragging or boasting about their accomplishments or by rubbing their success in the face of others who have not been as fortunate.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gloat?
Options: boast; sympathize; commiserate; empathize
Answer: boast
Synonyms: brag; celebrate; crow; exult; glory; preen; rejoice; relish; triumph; vaunt; whoop
Example: "After winning the chess tournament, he couldn't help but gloat over his defeated opponents."

gluttonous (adjective) /ˈglʌt n əs/
Meaning: It characterizes individuals who consume large quantities of food without restraint or consideration for their own health or the needs of others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gluttonous?
Options: overindulgent; abstemious; moderate; restrained
Answer: overindulgent
Synonyms: avaricious; gorging; greedy; indulgent; insatiable; overindulgent; piggish; rapacious; ravenous; voracious
Example: "After a week of strict dieting, she succumbed to her gluttonous cravings and devoured an entire pizza."

gluttony (noun) /ˈɡlʌtəni/
Meaning: It is considered one of the seven deadly sins in Christian tradition, and is often associated with a lack of self-control and a disregard for the consequences of one's actions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gluttony?
Options: overconsumption; moderation; abstinence; temperance
Answer: overconsumption
Synonyms: edacity; gourmandize; greed; immoderation; intemperance; overeating; piggishness; rapacity
Example: "The buffet's allure often encourages a night of unrestrained gluttony and overindulgence."

greed (noun) /grid/
Meaning: It is a negative quality that is characterized by an insatiable appetite for more than what is necessary or reasonable.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to greed?
Options: avarice; generosity; altruism; charity
Answer: avarice
Synonyms: acquisitiveness; avarice; avidity; covetousness; craving; cupidity; hunger; longing; materialism; rapacity; selfishness; voracity
Example: "The CEO's greed led to the company's downfall as he prioritized personal profits over sustainability."

haughty (adjective) /ˈhɔːti/
Meaning: When we characterize an individual as haughty, we suggest that they carry themselves with a sense of condescension and look down upon others as if they are inferior.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to haughty?
Options: proud; humble; modest; unassuming
Answer: proud
Synonyms: aloof; arrogant; conceited; condescending; contemptuous; disdainful; egotistical; imperious; lofty; overbearing; patronizing; proud
Example: "Her haughty demeanor made it difficult for others to approach her."

highfalutin (adjective) /ˌhaɪfəˈlutɪn/
Meaning: When someone is described as "highfalutin," it usually means that they are trying too hard to seem sophisticated or important, often through the use of fancy words, excessive formality, or grandiose gestures.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to highfalutin?
Options: pretentious; humble; modest; down-to-earth
Answer: pretentious
Synonyms: affected; bombastic; extravagant; flamboyant; flowery; grandiose; inflated; ostentatious; overblown; pompous; pretentious; showy
Example: "The speaker's highfalutin language left the audience bewildered."

hubris (noun) /ˈhjuːbrɪs/
Meaning: It is often used to describe a sense of overestimating one's abilities or accomplishments, and a belief in one's own invincibility.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to hubris?
Options: arrogance; humility; modesty; diffidence
Answer: arrogance
Synonyms: arrogance; audacity; cockiness; conceit; ego; egoism; haughtiness; overconfidence; pomposity; presumption; pride; vanity
Example: "The CEO's hubris led to the downfall of the once-thriving company."

imperious (adjective) /ɪmˈpɪərɪəs/
Meaning: It is often used to describe people who are arrogant and who expect to be treated with deference and respect.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to imperious?
Options: domineering; submissive; compliant; obliging
Answer: domineering
Synonyms: arrogant; authoritarian; authoritative; autocratic; bossy; commanding; dictatorial; dominating; domineering; forceful; haughty; officious
Example: "With an imperious gesture, the king signaled for silence in the court."

inconsiderate (adjective) /ˌɪnkənˈsɪd(ə)rət/
Meaning: When someone is inconsiderate, they do not take into account the feelings or needs of those around them, and may act in ways that are selfish or disruptive.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to inconsiderate?
Options: thoughtless; considerate; thoughtful; caring
Answer: thoughtless
Synonyms: discourteous; disrespectful; impolite; indelicate; insensitive; rude; tactless; ungracious
Example: "It was inconsiderate of her to speak loudly during the solemn ceremony."

merciless (adjective) /ˈmɜr sɪ lɪs/
Meaning: It suggests a complete absence of mercy or forgiveness, often accompanied by a relentless pursuit of one's goals or a harsh, unforgiving attitude.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to merciless?
Options: ruthless; compassionate; merciful; lenient
Answer: ruthless
Synonyms: brutal; cruel; harsh; heartless; inhumane; pitiless; relentless; ruthless; severe; unforgiving; unrelenting; unyielding
Example: "The merciless storm raged on, causing widespread destruction."

narcissism (noun) /ˈnɑːsɪsɪzᵊm/
Meaning: Individuals with narcissistic tendencies often exhibit a grandiose and self-centered attitude, believing they are superior to others and deserving of special treatment.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to narcissism?
Options: self-absorption; altruism; selflessness; humility
Answer: self-absorption
Synonyms: arrogance; bigheadedness; boastfulness; braggadocio; cockiness; conceit; egocentrism; egotism; overconfidence; pride; smugness; vanity
Example: "His relentless narcissism made it challenging to maintain relationships."

narcissist (noun) /ˈnɑːsɪsɪst/
Meaning: It is often used to describe someone who displays a pattern of behavior or attitude that is self-centered, self-absorbed, and lacking in empathy towards others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to narcissist?
Options: self-absorbed; altruistic; selfless; generous
Answer: self-absorbed
Synonyms: bighead; boaster; braggart; egocentric; egoist; egomaniac; egotist; exhibitionist; megalomaniac; showoff; swellhead; vainglorious
Example: "The office was abuzz with gossip about the new coworker being a narcissist."

narcissistic (adjective) /ˌnɑr səˈsɪs tɪk/
Meaning: Individuals who are narcissistic often prioritize their own interests above others, seeking constant attention and admiration.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to narcissistic?
Options: egotistical; selfless; humble; altruistic
Answer: egotistical
Synonyms: arrogant; boastful; conceited; egocentric; egotistical; haughty; pompous; smug; vain; vainglorious
Example: "The narcissistic leader ignored everyone's ideas, believing only his were valid."

obstinate (adjective) /ˈɒbstɪnət/
Meaning: It signifies a strong and often inflexible determination to adhere to one's opinions, beliefs, or course of action, even in the face of logical arguments or evidence to the contrary.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to obstinate?
Options: stubborn; flexible; compliant; amenable
Answer: stubborn
Synonyms: adamant; determined; dogged; headstrong; immovable; inflexible; intransigent; obdurate; resolute; rigid; steadfast; stubborn
Example: "Despite all efforts to convince him, he remained obstinate in his refusal to apologize."

ostentatious (adjective) /ˌɒstɛnˈteɪʃəs/
Meaning: Something that is ostentatious is characterized by being overly decorated, excessive, or grandiose, and is meant to demonstrate wealth, status, or power.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to ostentatious?
Options: showy; modest; unpretentious; simple
Answer: showy
Synonyms: boastful; brash; conspicuous; extravagant; flamboyant; flashy; gaudy; grandiose; opulent; ornate; pretentious; showy
Example: "She wore an ostentatious diamond necklace to the gala, drawing everyone's attention."

patronizing (adjective) /ˈpeɪ trəˌnaɪ zɪŋ/
Meaning: When someone is patronizing, they adopt a tone of exaggerated kindness or helpfulness that implies they are more knowledgeable or experienced than the person they are addressing.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to patronizing?
Options: condescending; respectful; humble; considerate
Answer: condescending
Synonyms: arrogant; belittling; condescending; demeaning; derisive; dismissive; haughty; mocking; scornful; snobbish; superior
Example: "The professor's patronizing attitude towards his students made the classroom environment uncomfortable."

pompous (adjective) /ˈpɒmpəs/
Meaning: When we refer to an individual as pompous, we are highlighting their tendency to act in a self-aggrandizing and ostentatious manner, often to impress or assert their superiority over others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to pompous?
Options: self-important; humble; modest; unassuming
Answer: self-important
Synonyms: affected; arrogant; bombastic; consequential; egotistical; grandiose; haughty; highfalutin; inflated; ostentatious; pretentious; vain
Example: "His pompous speech at the event only served to alienate the audience."

presumptuous (adjective) /prɪˈzʌm(p)tʃʊəs/
Meaning: This person assumes things without proper evidence or proof and acts as if their assumptions are correct.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to presumptuous?
Options: overconfident; humble; modest; respectful
Answer: overconfident
Synonyms: arrogant; audacious; bold; cheeky; egotistic; familiar; foolhardy; overfamiliar; supercilious
Example: "It was presumptuous of him to assume he knew all the answers."

prima-donna (noun) /ˌpriːmə ˈdɒnə/
Meaning: "Prima donna" is a Italian phrase that translates to "first lady.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to prima-donna?
Options: temperamental; easy-going; unassuming; modest
Answer: temperamental
Synonyms: arrogant; diva; egotist; haughty; headliner; narcissist; pampered; spoiled; star; superstar; temperamental
Example: "The actress's diva behavior on set earned her a reputation as a prima donna."

sanctimonious (adjective) /ˌsaŋ(k)tɪˈməʊnɪəs/
Meaning: The term "sanctimonious" is an adjective that is used to describe a person who is excessively or hypocritically pious or morally self-righteous.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to sanctimonious?
Options: self-righteous; sincere; genuine; honest
Answer: self-righteous
Synonyms: hypocritical; insincere; moralizing; pharisaical; pious; preachy; priggish; sanctified; smug; supercilious; unctuous; virtuous
Example: "He wore a sanctimonious smile as he lectured me about environmental responsibility."

snobbery (noun) /ˈsnɒb ə ri/
Meaning: It embodies a disdainful and elitist mentality, where individuals display an arrogant belief in their own superiority while looking down upon those they consider inferior.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to snobbery?
Options: elitism; humility; egalitarianism; modesty
Answer: elitism
Synonyms: affectation; arrogance; condescension; disdain; elitism; haughtiness; loftiness; pomposity; pretension; snobbishness; snootiness; superiority
Example: "His snobbery was evident in the way he scoffed at people who couldn't afford designer clothes."

snobbish (adjective) /ˈsnɒb ɪʃ/
Meaning: A snobbish person is inclined to exhibit a sense of superiority and condescension towards others, based on perceived social status, wealth, education, or taste.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to snobbish?
Options: elitist; egalitarian; humble; unpretentious
Answer: elitist
Synonyms: affected; arrogant; condescending; disdainful; elitist; haughty; lofty; pompous; pretentious; snobby; snooty; superior
Example: "She refused to associate with anyone she considered snobbish."

snooty (adjective) /ˈsnu ti/
Meaning: A snooty individual tends to exhibit a sense of self-importance and may look down upon others they perceive as inferior.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to snooty?
Options: haughty; friendly; approachable; welcoming
Answer: haughty
Synonyms: aloof; arrogant; condescending; disdainful; elitist; haughty; pretentious; snobbish; snotty; superior; uppity
Example: "She always has a snooty attitude when talking about fashion."

supercilious (adjective) /ˌsuːpəˈsɪlɪəs/
Meaning: When someone is described as supercilious, they project an air of arrogance and condescension, often looking down upon others with a sense of self-importance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to supercilious?
Options: haughty; humble; modest; respectful
Answer: haughty
Synonyms: aloof; arrogant; condescending; contemptuous; disdainful; haughty; imperious; overbearing; patronizing; pompous; pretentious; snobbish
Example: "Her supercilious tone made it clear that she considered herself above everyone else."

uppity (adjective) /ˈʌpɪti/
Meaning: The term is often used in a derogatory way, particularly in reference to people from marginalized or minority communities who are seen as stepping out of their perceived social or economic station.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to uppity?
Options: arrogant; modest; humble; unpretentious
Answer: arrogant
Synonyms: arrogant; bossy; bumptious; conceited; disdainful; domineering; egotistical; haughty; imperious; pompous; presumptuous; pretentious
Example: "Her uppity attitude made it difficult for her to connect with her peers."

vainglorious (adjective) /veɪnˈglɔr i əs/
Meaning: A vainglorious person is someone who seeks attention, admiration, or praise, and may engage in behavior that is designed to draw attention to themselves.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vainglorious?
Options: boastful; modest; humble; self-deprecating
Answer: boastful
Synonyms: arrogant; boastful; conceited; egotistical; narcissistic; overbearing; pompous; pretentious; proud; showy
Example: "His vainglorious boasts about his achievements annoyed his colleagues."

vanity (noun) /ˈvanɪti/
Meaning: Vanity manifests as a fixation on one's physical appearance, achievements, or status, often driven by a deep-seated need for approval and attention.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vanity?
Options: self-admiration; humility; modesty; selflessness
Answer: self-admiration
Synonyms: airs; arrogance; conceit; egotism; narcissism; pretension; pride; vainglory; vainness
Example: "Her vanity led her to spend hours perfecting her makeup."