smugness

[/ˈsmʌɡnəs/]
noun
autossuficiência
1. The quality of being excessively self-satisfied, complacent, or smug; a sense of superior satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements
His smugness about winning the competition annoyed everyone around him.
Sua autossuficiência sobre vencer a competição irritou todos ao seu redor.
2. An air of superiority or self-righteousness, often accompanied by a smirk or condescending attitude
The smugness in her tone made it clear she thought she was better than everyone else.
A autossuficiência em seu tom deixou claro que ela se achava melhor que todos os outros.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, smugness is generally viewed negatively as it violates cultural values of humility and modesty. In American culture, it's often associated with intellectual elitism or class superiority. In Brazil, where interpersonal warmth is valued, smugness is seen as particularly off-putting and distancing. The term is frequently used in social criticism and humor.
NYC Slang
Big head energy
Synonyms / Sinônimos
self-satisfactioncomplacencyarroganceself-righteousnessconceitvanity
Antonyms / Antônimos
humilitymodestyself-doubthumblenessmeekness

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
autossuficiência
Most common translation; conveys self-satisfaction and excessive confidence
General Brazilian
presunção
Alternative; emphasizes arrogance and self-importance
General Brazilian
vaidade
Alternative; focuses on the vanity aspect
Portugal
autossuficiência
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; universally understood

Related Words

smugsmuglyself-satisfiedcomplacentcondescendingarrogant

Related Idioms & Phrases

pleased with oneself
too big for one's boots
think the world of oneself
have a swollen head
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