smug

/smʌɡ/ (bre, ipa) · /smʌɡ/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈsməg/ (ame, mw)

smug — adjective

  • smugpositive
  • smuggercomparative
  • smuggestsuperlative

1. showing or feeling an exaggerated sense of one's own achievements, knowledge, or

1.形容詞B2
釋義

showing or feeling an exaggerated sense of one's own achievements, knowledge, or superiority, usually in a way that annoys other people

例句

Felix wore a smug smile after winning the chess tournament.

collocation: smug smile

Constanza felt smug about finishing the project ahead of schedule.

collocation: feel smug about + noun phrase

同義詞
  • self-satisfied

    more neutral; can describe quiet, deserved satisfaction without the negative edge

  • complacent

    focuses on being unaware of problems or risks rather than actively showing off

  • conceited

    focuses on an overall high opinion of one's own abilities, not just a specific achievement

  • superior

    emphasizes looking down on others rather than being pleased with oneself

反義詞
  • humble

    opposite attitude — not thinking too highly of one's own importance

  • modest

    opposite in the sense of not boasting or drawing attention to achievements

文法句型

smug + about + noun/gerund

smug + that-clause

smug look/smile/expression/tone

用法筆記

This term is always negative — it describes someone who not only feels proud but visibly displays that pride in a way that others find irritating or off-putting. It is especially common paired with nouns for facial expressions (smile, grin, look, expression) or for a person's tone of voice.

常見錯誤

❌He looked smug when he received the graduation certificate.' (using smug for genuine pride).
✅He looked proud when he received the graduation certificate.
💡smug implies annoying self-satisfaction, not healthy pride.