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hubris

Hubris (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

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What does hubris mean?

Excessive pride or self-confidence that often leads to arrogance and a disregard for others.
"The athlete's hubris caused him to lose the respect of his teammates."

Detailed Meaning of Hubris

It is often used to describe a sense of overestimating one's abilities or accomplishments, and a belief in one's own invincibility. Hubris can lead to a person becoming overconfident, making foolish decisions, and ultimately leading to their downfall. In Greek mythology, hubris is often associated with the tragic flaw of the protagonist that leads to their downfall. In real life, hubris can manifest in many ways, such as in political leaders who refuse to listen to opposing views or in corporate leaders who make unethical decisions because they believe they are above the law. Hubris can also lead to a lack of empathy and understanding of others' perspectives, which can make it difficult for the person to form healthy relationships or to be a good leader. In general, Hubris refers to excessive pride or self-confidence that often leads to arrogance and a disregard for others, often resulting in the person's downfall.

Example Sentences for Hubris

1. The CEO's hubris led to the downfall of the once-thriving company.
2. His hubris blinded him to the advice of others, resulting in his failure.
3. The politician's hubris caused him to believe he was above the law.
4. She displayed an excessive amount of hubris, thinking she could accomplish anything without help.
5. The athlete's hubris cost him the championship as he underestimated his opponents.
6. Hubris often leads to a lack of self-awareness and empathy.

Origin and Etymology of Hubris

The noun 'hubris' finds its origins in ancient Greece, where it was a central concept in Greek tragedy and philosophy. It stems from the Greek word 'hybris,' which encompassed actions or behaviors characterized by excessive pride, insolence, or arrogance, often towards the gods or other individuals. In Greek culture, 'hybris' was considered a grave moral transgression, leading to downfall and punishment. This concept was integral to many classical Greek tragedies, where hubris was a tragic flaw that ultimately brought about the protagonist's downfall. Today, 'hubris' continues to signify excessive pride or self-confidence that leads to a disregard for others, reflecting the enduring influence of Greek philosophy and drama on our understanding of human behavior.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding 

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More Usage Examples of Hubris

1. His hubris prevented him from admitting his mistakes and seeking forgiveness.
2. The ruler's hubris resulted in the downfall of his empire.
3. Hubris is a dangerous trait that can cloud judgment and lead to poor decision-making.
4. The artist's hubris prevented him from accepting constructive criticism and improving his work.
5. Hubris is often the downfall of those who think they are invincible.
6. The hubris of the dictator led to the suffering of his people.
7. Hubris can blind individuals to their own limitations and flaws.
8. The CEO's hubris caused him to overlook the valuable contributions of his employees.
9. Hubris can be a barrier to personal growth and learning from mistakes.
10. The hubris of the team's captain undermined the unity and cooperation of the players.
11. Her hubris prevented her from acknowledging the achievements of others.
12. Hubris can lead to a false sense of superiority and entitlement.
13. The entrepreneur's hubris led him to take unnecessary risks, resulting in financial ruin.
14. Hubris is a cautionary tale of unchecked pride and arrogance.

Synonyms and Related Words for Hubris

ego
egoism
haughtiness
overconfidence
pomposity
pride

Related Vocabulary Practice

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