Complacent vs. Complaisant: What's the Difference?
Complacent and complaisant are two terms that often cause confusion due to their similar spelling and pronunciation, but they have distinct meanings. Complacent refers to a self-satisfied attitude, where one may become uncritical about potential dangers or flaws. It conveys a sense of smugness or unearned contentment. On the other hand, complaisant describes a disposition to please or accommodate others, often going out of one's way to be polite or obliging.
How do you use the word complacent in a sentence?
The word complacent is used to describe someone who is overly self-satisfied and indifferent to potential issues or challenges. It implies a level of self-approval that prevents a person from striving to improve or acknowledging their shortcomings. Complacent is often used in a negative context, suggesting that the lack of concern or urgency is unwarranted.
Examples of complacent in a sentence
- The team cannot afford to be complacent after just one win; they need to maintain their momentum.
- Her complacent attitude towards her studies could result in her missing out on a scholarship.
- The company became complacent in innovation, allowing its competitors to surge ahead.
How do you use the word complaisant in a sentence?
Complaisant is used to characterize individuals who are eager to please others and willing to comply with their requests or desires. The term often carries a positive connotation, highlighting a person's affable and accommodating nature. It can be especially relevant in contexts where courtesy and cooperation are valued.
Examples of complaisant in a sentence
- Her complaisant manner made her a favorite among her colleagues, as she was always willing to help.
- Despite the unreasonable demands, he remained complaisant, ensuring the customer left satisfied.
- They sought a complaisant partner who would agree with the direction the committee had chosen.
Complacent and complaisant definition, parts of speech, and pronunciation
Complacent definition:
Complacent: Showing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements; self-satisfied to the point of inactivity.
Complacent parts of speech:
Complacent pronunciation:
Complacent: /kəmˈpleɪ.sənt/
Complaisant definition:
Complaisant: Willing to please others or to accept what they do or say without protest; amiably agreeable and willing to accommodate.
Complaisant parts of speech:
Complaisant pronunciation:
Complaisant: /kəmˈpleɪ.zənt/
Complacent: Showing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements; self-satisfied to the point of inactivity.
Complacent parts of speech:
- As an adjective: The complacent smile on his face suggested he was not concerned about the potential risks.
Complacent pronunciation:
Complacent: /kəmˈpleɪ.sənt/
Complaisant definition:
Complaisant: Willing to please others or to accept what they do or say without protest; amiably agreeable and willing to accommodate.
Complaisant parts of speech:
- As an adjective: Her complaisant response to every request demonstrated her cooperative spirit.
Complaisant pronunciation:
Complaisant: /kəmˈpleɪ.zənt/
Complacent vs. complaisant in a nutshell
Understanding the difference between complacent and complaisant helps ensure precise communication. Complacent signifies a self-contentment that can be negative, hinting at apathy and a lack of motivation to improve, whereas complaisant has a more positive connotation, relating to a willingness to please. Both words serve unique purposes, and despite their close phonetic resemblance, they carry distinct implications about a person's attitude and behavior.
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