ego trip
Definition:
A display of self-importance, a vehicle for self-satisfaction. For example, “These annual art shows of hers are simply an ego trip; she has no talent whatsoever.” This pejorative term dates from the second half of the 1900s. It brands someone as an egotist, which Ambrose Bierce defined as “A person of low taste, more interested in himself than in me” (The Devil’s Dictionary, 1911).
Related Terms:
- Vanity project: Something someone does to display their own importance.
- Peacocking: Showing off oneself to attract attention.
- Full of oneself: Overly self-important.
- Self-made hero: Acting like the central character in one’s own hero story.
Similar Expressions:
- On a high horse: Acting arrogantly or self-righteous.
- King of the hill: Consider oneself at the top, whether or not others agree.
- He who puts himself on a pedestal: Prone to falling that much harder.
Synonyms:
- Arrogance
- Hubris
- Conceit
- Vainglory
Antonyms:
- Modesty
- Humility
- Self-effacement
- Selflessness
Humor-Filled Quotes:
“The only thing bigger than his rich uncle’s yacht is his opinion of himself.” - Anonymous
“I used to struggle with self-esteem issues…until I realized it was other people who had a problem with my sky-high confidence!” - Anon E. Mous
Proverbs:
“Pride comes before a fall.”
“A lion doesn’t need to roar to show its strength.”
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
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Books:
- “Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus” by John Gray: For anyone on an ego trip about their relationship skills!
- “The Fountainhead” by Ayn Rand: Classic ego trip in architectural form.
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Movies:
- “The Wolf of Wall Street” (2013): A non-stop ego trip on roller skates.
- “American Psycho” (2000): The ultimate ego trip gone way, way wrong.
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Songs:
- “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon: Is this song about them? Of course they think so!
- “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” by Kanye West: Apparently an unofficial anthem for ego trips.
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Poetry:
- “Ozymandias” by Percy Bysshe Shelley: An ego trip turned ancient cautionary tale.
Inspirational Thought: Remember, it’s okay to acknowledge our accomplishments, just don’t confuse self-respect with self-conceit. True greatness often whispers, rather than shouts.
