Complacent
mediumNegative tonekum-PLAY-sunt
adjective
Definition
Showing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements
Memory hook
COM-PLACE-nt: Too comfortable in your PLACE -- smugly satisfied and not trying harder.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The team became complacent after their early success.”
“We must not be complacent about climate change.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The team became ______ after their early success.”
Show answer
complacent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Complacent is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "self-satisfied" or "smug" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "dissatisfied".
Related GRE Words
indifferent
Having no particular interest or sympathy; mediocre
nonchalant
casually calm and unconcerned; showing a relaxed indifference
averse
Having a strong dislike or opposition to something
condescending
Having or showing an attitude of patronizing superiority
disdainful
Showing contempt or lack of respect
frivolous
Lacking seriousness or importance; trivial or unworthy of consideration
Master complacent and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.