To pride oneself on is an idiomatic expression that refers to a feeling of deep satisfaction, self-importance, or superiority stemming from one's abilities, accomplishments, qualities, or possessions. It describes the act of taking pride in or boasting about something that one considers impressive or of high value. When someone prides themselves on something, they often view it as a source of personal distinction or uniqueness, attributing their self-worth or identity partially to that particular attribute.
This expression typically implies that an individual places great emphasis on their perceived excellence in a specific area and derives a sense of self-esteem or self-satisfaction from it. It can apply to various aspects of life, such as personal achievements, professional skills, social status, intellectual capabilities, physical appearance, moral values, or possessions. For instance, someone may pride themselves on their academic success, physical fitness, kindness, integrity, or a luxurious car they own.
However, priding oneself on something also carries the connotation that an individual may have an exaggerated or overinflated sense of self-importance or entitlement. It suggests that they may consider themselves better or superior to others based on their accomplishments, which can sometimes lead to arrogance or boastfulness. Nonetheless, this expression conveys a person's intense satisfaction and strong belief in their exceptional attributes or possessions, often influencing their self-confidence and behavior.
