Conceit

Noun

Definition: An excessively favorable opinion of one's own abilities, importance, or worth; an over-high opinion of oneself.

Definition: A literary device or figure of speech where two vastly different objects are compared in an extended metaphor, often with clever or surprising juxtaposition.

Synonyms: Arrogance, Vanity, Egotism

Antonyms: Humility, Modesty

Examples:
  • His constant boasting about his achievements displayed his conceit.
  • The love sonnet used a conceit of comparing the lover to a summer's day.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "conceit" as "conceited" - a person with an excessive opinion of themselves.
  • "Conceit" can also refer to a clever or surprising metaphor, so think of "concept" to remember this meaning.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English from Old French 'conceite', from Latin 'conceptus' meaning "concept" or "idea".

Historical Usage:

The word entered the English language in the 14th century originally meaning "something conceived in the mind" before evolving to its current meanings.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In conceit with oneself"

Explanation:

Refers to someone who is overly self-centered or self-absorbed.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "conceit" with "concept".

Explanation:

While both words have similar sounds, they have different meanings. "Conceit" refers to excessive self-esteem or a literary device, while "concept" refers to a general idea or notion.

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