# complacency

/kəmˈpɫeɪsənsi/ (US) · /kəmplˈeɪsnsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/complacency
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with the preposition 'about' or 'regarding'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.