SELF-DOUBT Synonyms: 49 Similar and Opposite Words

self-doubt

noun

Definition of self-doubt

as in insecurity

Related Words

Relevance

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of self-doubt Shalhoub admitted that the pressure didn’t come from anyone else, and the self-doubt and fear of failure were all self-induced. — Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 14 Aug. 2026 Riddick, who teaches as an adjunct professor while searching for a long-term role, says the process can fill even the most confident individuals with self-doubt. — Zulekha Nathoo, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026 Summary The pervasive inner critic often sabotages career success by fostering self-doubt and imposter syndrome. — Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 Drawing on memories of working-class Wales, old folk tunes and love for his wife, Stella, Hopkins crafts lush, unapologetically emotional pieces that grapple with self-doubt, aging and life’s long goodbyes. — Tim Greiving, Los Angeles Times, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-doubt

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-doubt

Noun

There’s a lot of character packed into that description — a complicated combination of ego, insecurity, cynicism, and self-justification.

— Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 14 Oct. 2026
But finding one’s nerve means fighting the everyday vagaries of low self-esteem, depression, self-deception, insecurity, loss, never-ending grief, and narcissists.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of insecurity

Noun

Playing Edward as the courtly and compassionate polar-opposite of his awful sister Fanny, MacKay brings a gentle diffidence that syncs beautifully with Edgar-Jones’ delicate reserve.

— David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 21 Sep. 2026
Our pro bono military operations have been conducted with noticeable diffidence.

— Robert Stone, Rolling Stone, 11 Sep. 2026