Complacent refers to a feeling of self-satisfaction, often to the point where one becomes unaware or unconcerned about potential problems or dangers. While it can imply contentment, it typically has a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of awareness or effort to improve.
Definition
Complacent (adjective):
- Satisfied with one’s current situation, often without awareness of potential dangers or issues
“He grew complacent after his promotion, believing his job was secure without further effort.” - Self-satisfied, to the point of being unaware or uninterested in potential improvements
“Her complacent attitude toward the project led to its eventual failure.”
Examples in Context
- “The company became complacent, failing to adapt to the changing market conditions.”
- “He was complacent about his health, ignoring the advice to exercise more and eat better.”
- “Despite the clear signs of danger, she remained complacent, confident that nothing would go wrong.”
Origin
The word comes from the Latin complacere, which means “to please greatly,” combining com- (meaning “together”) and placere (meaning “to please”). Over time, it evolved to describe a sense of contentment that can lead to a lack of awareness or concern.
Synonyms
- Satisfied
- Content
- Self-sufficient
- Unconcerned
- Unaware
Antonyms
- Concerned
- Ambitious
- Dissatisfied
- Vigilant
- Proactive
In Practice
Being complacent can be detrimental in both personal and professional settings. While contentment isn’t inherently negative, complacency often leads to stagnation or missed opportunities for growth and improvement. In business, complacency can lead to a company losing touch with market trends, while in personal relationships, it might result in neglect or lack of effort.
Conclusion
Complacency can limit progress and prevent people from addressing underlying issues. It’s important to be mindful of how complacency can affect your actions and decisions, and to strive for continuous improvement, even when things seem fine.