noun
inferiority
Inferiority (noun) means the state of being lower in quality, rank, or ability than others. Example: “Years of harsh criticism left him with a lasting sense of inferiority.”
noun
1
The state of being lower in quality, rank, or ability than others.
"Years of harsh criticism left him with a lasting sense of inferiority."
"The company's inferiority in customer service cost it market share."
How to use inferiority
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe quality of being worse or lower-ranked than something else — often used for a feeling about yourself.
Common pairings
inferiority complex
sense of inferiority
feelings of inferiority
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Word forms
- Plural
- inferiorities
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Years of harsh criticism left him with a lasting sense of _____.
Etymology
Built from inferior plus the noun-forming suffix -ity.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for inferiority
See all rhymes for inferiority →Frequently asked questions
What does “inferiority” mean?
The word “inferiority” means the state of being lower in quality, rank, or ability than others. In plain terms, the quality of being worse or lower-ranked than something else — often used for a feeling about yourself.
How do you use “inferiority” in a sentence?
Here is “inferiority” used in a sentence: “Years of harsh criticism left him with a lasting sense of inferiority.”
What is another word for “inferiority”?
Words with a similar meaning to “inferiority” include deteriority, netherness, raunch, suckage, suckiness and worseness.
What is the opposite of “inferiority”?
The opposite of “inferiority” — its antonyms — are superiority and noninferiority.
What part of speech is “inferiority”?
“Inferiority” is a noun.
