conceit
What does "conceit" mean?
Conceit describes an excessive sense of self-importance or an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities or attractiveness. It is the mental image of someone who is so preoccupied with their own reflection—like the mythological Narcissus—that they lose touch with reality or the value of others. The word is formal and carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the person's pride is unearned or annoying to those around them. It is often used in collocations like "full of conceit" or "the conceit of youth," highlighting a lack of humility or a vanity that borders on arrogance.
"conceit" in conversation
Discussing a coworker
I find it hard to work with Mark lately.
I find it hard to work with Mark lately.
It's his conceit; he thinks he's the only one who knows how to run the project.
It's his conceit; he thinks he's the only one who knows how to run the project.
Used to describe a specific, annoying personality trait.
Literary analysis
The poet uses a very elaborate conceit to compare love to a stormy sea.
The poet uses a very elaborate conceit to compare love to a stormy sea.
So it's an extended metaphor?
So it's an extended metaphor?
In literature, a 'conceit' can also refer to an elaborate, fanciful metaphor.
"conceit" in a sentence
His conceit prevented him from ever admitting he was wrong.
His conceit prevented him from ever admitting he was wrong.
She wore her success without a trace of conceit, remaining humble despite the fame.
She wore her success without a trace of conceit, remaining humble despite the fame.
The playwright employed a daring conceit, framing the entire tragedy as a conversation between the sun and the moon.
The playwright employed a daring conceit, framing the entire tragedy as a conversation between the sun and the moon.
