self-esteem

[/ˌself ɪˈstiːm/]
noun
autoestima
1. confidence in one's own worth or abilities; self-respect
Building self-esteem is important for children's development.
Construir autoestima é importante para o desenvolvimento das crianças.
2. a realistic respect for or favorable impression of oneself
Her positive self-esteem helped her overcome the challenge.
Sua autoestima positiva a ajudou a superar o desafio.
3. the degree to which one values oneself
Low self-esteem can lead to anxiety and depression.
A baixa autoestima pode levar à ansiedade e depressão.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, self-esteem is highly valued in education and personal development. The concept gained prominence in educational psychology in the 1980s-90s. Brazilians often emphasize family support in building autoestima, while Americans tend to focus on individual achievement. The term is widely used in therapy, coaching, and corporate wellness programs across both cultures.
NYC Slang
feeling yourself / having confidence in yourself
Synonyms / Sinônimos
self-respectself-worthconfidenceself-regardpridedignity
Antonyms / Antônimos
low self-esteemself-doubtinsecurityinferiority complexlack of confidence

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
autoestima
Most common and standard term used in psychological and educational contexts
Rio de Janeiro
autoestima
Same as general Brazilian, no significant regional variation
São Paulo
autoestima
Standard usage, commonly used in corporate and therapeutic settings
Portugal
autoestima
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; widely used in professional and academic contexts

Related Words

self-confidenceself-imageself-perceptionself-efficacypridedignityconfidence

Related Idioms & Phrases

boost someone's self-esteem
take a hit to one's self-esteem
have a healthy self-esteem
restore one's self-esteem
undermine someone's self-esteem
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