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I have heard many people over use the word 'prideful' in sentences that tend to have a negative connotation. Many times, however, the sentence structure tends to sound awkward. Is there a set of rules maybe to use when deciding when to use 'proud' or 'prideful'... Or am I overthinking this one?

SAMPLE SENTENCE

In many cases, these people are very prideful.

or

In many cases, these people are very proud.

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Prideful means having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy, as in haught or disdainful.

Pride is having a feeling that you respect yourself and deserve to be respected by other people.

Prideful is used in situations when one shows arrogance, conceit or vainglory and despises those he considers inferior.

You can also read an article from this site.

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  • So the word 'proud' then cannot be used to denote a negative type of pride? (Arrogant)
    – Will Reeves
    May 7, 2016 at 20:28
  • Yes it can, but with help of other words, as in "too proud."
    – vickyace
    May 7, 2016 at 20:29
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    Only when used in context to provide the negative meaning then...
    – Will Reeves
    May 7, 2016 at 20:30
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    Yes, but you should careful about using it if the audience is too sensitive.
    – vickyace
    May 7, 2016 at 20:31

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