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Word

ego

noun C1
UK /ˈiːɡəʊ/
US /ˈiɡo/

Meanings

noun

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

ego: 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

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

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