What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
complacent
Example
She was complacent with her job and didn't bother looking for new opportunities. [complacent: adjective]
Example
His complacency led him to ignore the warning signs of an impending crisis. [complacency: noun]
smug
Example
She had a smug expression on her face after winning the competition. [smug: adjective]
Example
He felt smug about his decision to invest in the stock market, despite the risks. [feeling smug: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complacent is more commonly used than smug in formal writing and professional settings. Smug is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as conversations with friends or social media posts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between complacent and smug?
While complacent is typically associated with a formal tone, smug is more informal and can be used in casual conversations or social media posts.
