inferiority

[ in-feer-ee-awr-i-tee, -or- ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being lesser or lower in rank, position, quality, etc.:

   Negative perceptions about the inferiority of generic drugs compared to brand name drugs were more pronounced among some segments of the studied population.

2. the quality or state of feeling less important, valuable, or worthy:

   The youth center was founded on the belief that youth violence is a product of various social and economic factors that contribute to feelings of inferiority, powerlessness, and hopelessness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of inferiority¹

First recorded in 1580–90; inferior ( def ) + -ity ( def )

Example Sentences

The myriad accomplishments by Black Americans in the face of the oppressive conditions of slavery and racial hierarchy openly defied stereotypes of their inferiority.

From Salon

It also bars streamers from making content which "expresses inferiority based on a protected characteristic".

From BBC

He’s a walking inferiority complex, compensating with random acts of violence, like a Caligula fanboy, and looks ready at any minute to pop off like Vesuvius.

From Los Angeles Times

If you thought they were beefing over some rapper inferiority complexes — you were wrong.

From Salon

They have won their past two meetings with Celtic, which should help dispel any inferiority fears, although it was February 2020 when Hearts last managed to beat Rangers - which was in this competition.

From BBC

Related Words

• inadequacy