inferiority complex
US /ɪnˌfɪriˈɔrəti ˈkɑmplɛks/
UK /ɪnˌfɪriˈɔrəti ˈkɑmplɛks/
1.
an unrealistic feeling of general inadequacy caused by actual or supposed inferiority in one sphere, sometimes marked by aggressive behavior in compensation.
:
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He developed an inferiority complex after failing the exam multiple times.
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Her constant need for validation stemmed from a deep-seated inferiority complex.