Self-righteous for Dummies

Hi there! So, let's talk about the word "self-righteous." I know that sometimes big words can be confusing, but I'm here to help you understand it in the easiest way possible. Are you ready? Great!

Okay, imagine for a moment that you and your friend are playing a game together. You both make a mistake and break one of the game's rules. But here's the thing - you apologize and say sorry because you know it was wrong to break the rule.

Now, imagine another person who also breaks the same rule. But instead of saying sorry or admitting they made a mistake, they act as if they did nothing wrong. In fact, they even start acting like they're better than everyone else because they believe they never do anything wrong. That person is being self-righteous.

In simpler terms, "self-righteous" means thinking you are always right, even when you've made a mistake. It's like having a big ego and believing you're better than others because you never admit your faults. It's almost like wearing a pair of special glasses that make you see everything through a lens of superiority.

Now, remember how I mentioned there can be multiple definitions? Another way to understand "self-righteous" is when someone acts as if they know everything there is to know about what is right and wrong, and they judge others based on their own high standards. It's like they see themselves as the ultimate judge and jury, constantly pointing fingers at others and saying, "I'm better than you because I always do the right thing."

So, my dear student, "self-righteous" basically means someone who thinks they are always right and acts superior to others, even when they make mistakes. It's important to remember that nobody is perfect, and admitting our faults and learning from them is a much better way to grow as individuals.