mentality
n. C / Un. the way a person or group of people thinks and their typical attitude toward life. It describes the set of beliefs that shapes how you react to things.
n. a characteristic way of thinking or a set of attitudes held by an individual or a social group. Often used to explain the psychological motivations behind specific behaviors or cultural trends.
You need a positive mentality to succeed in this job.
The coach worked hard to change the team's losing mentality into one of confidence and resilience.
Sociologists argue that the prevailing mentality of the era was shaped by rapid industrialization and a newfound faith in scientific progress.
From mental + -ity. Doublet of mentalité.
Uncountable when referring to a general state of mind; countable when distinguishing between different types of thinking ('a growth mentality').
- 01
crab mentality
A phenomenon in which a person or a group of people attempt to hinder the progress or success of others, even if such success does not directly affect their own well-being.
- 02
elbow mentality
An attitude characterized by self-interest and a willingness to prioritize personal benefit or ambition, often above the welfare of an organization or community; a willingness to elbow (verb) past others.