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

He denied that his crimes against his wife had been sparked by an inferiority complex or by a desire for revenge for an affair she had in the 1980s.

From BBC

While reigning champions Canada rank second in the world, there is no reason for Britain to have an inferiority complex.

From BBC

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

Related Words

• inadequacy