Learn English – Is “self-proclaimed” negative word

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Is self-proclaimed a negative word?

If we write a self-proclaimed Java Programmer in my CV or formal meetings, will it be considered as a negative or positive word?

Can we use this word in formal talks and letters? And where should we use this word and where not?

Best Answer

It depends.

'self-proclaimed' means

described as or proclaimed to be such by oneself, without endorsement by others

This can bear a negative impact if you use it contexts such as 'self-proclaimed god-man', or 'self-proclaimed ruler'. But this need not be a negative phrase at all times.

Consider the sentence:

I am a self-proclaimed expert.

This could mean that he is very content with his skillset. It could express a sense of confidence in themselves.

If you really think about it,

It could mean two things:

  1. That you have taken up a status or a title without a second person's consent, or having to hear his opinion.

  2. That you declare yourself to be the best at what you do, which can be synonymous to being proud, or in certain cases, being arrogant.

Generally, you can assume that 'self-proclaimed' has a negative impact, but it need not be true in all cases.

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