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What is the connotation of complacence? Is it a negative trait? The dictionary makes it seem like a positive attribute.

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Complacence is an often unjustified feeling of being pleased with oneself or with one's situation or achievements http://www.merriam-webster.com. It is used to denote egoism , pompousness, self admiration, vanity and the likes making it a negative word. It also refers to lack of interest and concern. It has negative connotation.

Can you quote an example/sentence where it is reflecting positiveness?

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    Thanks a lot Matrika. I got the positive vibes from the MW entry - : calm or secure satisfaction with oneself or one's lot merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complacence . I'm thinking the older complaisant may be the culprit
    – Caffeinated
    Commented Sep 21, 2011 at 7:06
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Complacence is negative in the sense that it implies an undeserved or unjustified sense of wellbeing and contentment.

A complacent person feels satisfied (with a situation or with him/herself) to the extent of becoming careless and uninterested in improvement. Similarly, such a person is likely to feel so content that s/he tends to overlook legitimate problems or risks that should, actually, be cause of concern.

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  • I really agree with feels satisfied (with a situation or with him/herself) to the extent of becoming careless and uninterested in improvement - yes, thanks so much.
    – Caffeinated
    Commented Sep 21, 2011 at 6:28

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