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Smarmy vs Complacent - What's the difference?

smarmy | complacent |

As adjectives the difference between smarmy and complacent

is that smarmy is falsely earnest, smug, or ingratiating while complacent is uncritically satisfied with oneself or one's achievements; smug.

smarmy

English

Adjective

(er)
  • Falsely earnest, smug, or ingratiating.
    • a smarmy salesman with a big smile

    Synonyms

    * (falsely earnest or smug) flattering, gushing, ingratiating, oily, smug

    Related terms

    * smarm * smarmily * smarminess

    complacent

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Uncritically satisfied with oneself or one's achievements; smug.
  • Apathetic with regard to an apparent need or problem.

    • Usage notes

    * (term) should not be confused with its homophone, complaisant.

    Synonyms

    * smug * self-satisfied

    Derived terms

    * (l) * self-complacent

    Related terms

    * complacence * complacency

    External links

    * * ----