self-loathing
5 synonyms and 3 antonyms for self-loathing, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Intense hatred or disgust directed at yourself, going beyond ordinary self-criticism into contempt for who you are.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
Intense hatred or disgust directed at yourself, going beyond ordinary self-criticism into contempt for who you are.
“The diaries record years of self-loathing he hid from everyone.”
Opposites
2. adjective
Filled with hatred of yourself, or of a group you belong to.
“He wrote a self-loathing account of his years in the industry.”
How to Use Self-Loathing
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral and clinical enough for psychology writing, and common in memoir and criticism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between self-loathing and low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a poor opinion of your worth or abilities, and it can be quiet and comparative. Self-loathing is active hostility towards yourself, closer to hatred than to doubt, and it tends to attach to your whole identity rather than your performance.
Is self-loathing a mental illness?
It is not a diagnosis in itself, but it is a recognised feature of depression, eating disorders, complex trauma and addiction. Persistent self-loathing is a reason to seek help, since it rarely lifts on its own.
What is the opposite of self-loathing?
Self-acceptance is the truest opposite, since it means being at peace with yourself as you are. Self-love and self-esteem are near opposites, but they involve positive regard rather than simple absence of hatred.