Word
complacency
Phoneticscom·pla·cen·cy
US/kəmˈpɫeɪsənsi/
UK/kəmplˈeɪsnsi/
Definition
n. a feeling of being too satisfied with yourself or your situation. Because of this feeling, you stop trying to improve or do not see possible dangers.
n. a feeling of quiet pleasure or security, often while unaware of some potential danger or defect. Frequently associated with a lack of critical self-appraisal or a failure to maintain standards.
Examples
“Success can sometimes lead to dangerous complacency.”
“The team's recent winning streak led to a sense of complacency that caused them to lose the final match.”
“Economists warn that market complacency regarding inflation could lead to a sudden correction if interest rates rise faster than investors currently anticipate.”
Examples
simple
“Success can sometimes lead to dangerous complacency.”
contextual
“The team's recent winning streak led to a sense of complacency that caused them to lose the final match.”
complex
“Economists warn that market complacency regarding inflation could lead to a sudden correction if interest rates rise faster than investors currently anticipate.”
Usage
Often paired with the preposition 'about' or 'regarding'.
Real-World Examples
“Gen Gwyn Jenkins, the First Sea Lord, said there was “no room for complacency” as shadow fleet vessels continued to pose “an unacceptable risk” to UK security.” “There will be no complacency, however, having seen how newly promoted sides have fared in recent history.” Etymology
Late Middle English complacence, from Late Latin complacentia. Compare French complaisance.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/complacency