English Reference
noun

mentality

n.
US /mɛnˈtæɫəti/ UK /mɛntˈælɪti/ men·tal·i·ty UK spelling mentalities

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the typical way that a person or group thinks, which influences their behavior.

    a characteristic mental attitude or way of thinking that determines how an individual or group interprets and responds to situations.

    Simple

    To succeed in this difficult job, you need to have a very positive mentality.

    In context

    The coach worked hard to instill a winning mentality in the players, emphasizing resilience and collective responsibility over individual glory.

  2. 02 C2 Proficiency AcademicTechnical Science

    the power of the mind or the way the human mind works as a system.

    the nature or operation of the mind as a complex system of biological and cultural processes.

    Simple

    Scientists are still studying the complex mentality of dolphins and how they communicate.

    In context

    The research paper explores the evolution of human mentality, specifically how linguistic structures shaped early cognitive development.

    Usage

    Often used in academic contexts to discuss the mind as a functional system rather than just a personal attitude.

Dionisi praised the attitude of his team – “I liked the mentality of my players, in every moment I saw one team working together,” he said.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026

If you want to come to Sunderland and play the way you want to, then you need the right mentality.

The Guardian· 30 Aug 2026

From mental + -ity. Doublet of mentalité.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated