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Word

ego

noun C1
UK /ˈiːɡəʊ/
US /ˈiɡo/

Ego is a person’s sense of self-importance or self-esteem.

ego: Ego is a person’s sense of self-importance or self-esteem.

Meanings

noun

a person’s sense of self-importance, pride, or self-esteem

noun

the part of the mind that mediates between basic desires and moral rules (in psychoanalytic theory)

ego: the part of the mind that mediates between basic desires and moral rules (in psychoanalytic theory)

Definition

An ego is the part of someone’s mind that shapes how they see themselves and their value. In everyday English, it often refers to someone’s pride or self-importance, especially when it seems excessive. It can also mean healthy self-respect and confidence, depending on context.

Examples

  • I had to set my ego aside and admit that her approach worked better.
  • You can protect your ego without dismissing feedback that could help you improve.
  • His ego took a hit when the proposal was rejected, but he recovered quickly and revised it.
  • Her ego isn’t fragile, so she can laugh at herself when a plan goes wrong.
  • Their ego sometimes gets in the way of collaboration, especially when deadlines are tight.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse "ego" with "alter ego," but "ego" is your self-image while an "alter ego" is a different or secondary persona.

More at C1 level

More nouns