Translation guide
Describes someone who has an excessively high opinion of themselves. Japanese has many nuanced terms for this, ranging from mild to strong, and often uses specific words for boastful behavior versus internal arrogance.
Describing a person who thinks they are better than others, often in a general sense.
The most common and natural way to say someone is conceited. It implies they are full of themselves, often without good reason.
He is conceited.
Don't be so conceited.
Suggests someone has gotten a big head, often due to success or praise. Slightly more formal than うぬぼれている.
He's become conceited after his success.
Idiomatic expression literally meaning 'to become a tengu' (a mythical creature with a long nose, symbolizing pride). Very common in casual speech.
He got a little praise and now he's all conceited.
A noun phrase meaning 'strong conceit'. Used to describe a personality trait.
He has a strong conceited streak.
Focusing on the act of talking proudly about oneself, often exaggerating achievements.
The standard verb for boasting or bragging. Can be used positively (proud of something) but often negative when excessive.
He's always bragging about his car.
Means to act bossy or arrogant, often by boasting. Implies throwing one's weight around.
Formal/literary term for showing off or flaunting. Often used for displaying wealth, knowledge, etc.
He flaunts his knowledge.
Conveying a quiet, often irritating satisfaction with oneself, sometimes after a minor achievement.
Slang for a smug facial expression. Very common in casual contexts, especially online.
He gave the answer with a conceited look on his face.
Describes someone looking pleased with themselves, often in a way that is slightly annoying. Can be used for both positive pride and negative conceit.
Literally 'done-it face', meaning a look of self-satisfaction as if one has accomplished something clever. Somewhat literary.
Excessive love of oneself, often focused on appearance or self-image.
Both mean 'conceited', but 天狗になっている is more colorful and often implies a temporary state caused by praise or success, while うぬぼれている can be a more permanent trait.
He's always been conceited, but since his recent promotion he's become even more full of himself.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all nuances of 'conceited'. Using うぬぼれている is the safest default, but consider the specific behavior (boasting, smugness, vanity) for more natural expression.
彼は部下に威張っている。
He acts conceited toward his subordinates.
彼女は得意げに微笑んだ。
She smiled conceitedly.
He nodded with a conceited air.
I dislike his conceited, self-absorbed attitude.