14 phrases that indicate someone has an inflated ego (and may be a narcissist)

Adrian Volenik by Adrian Volenik | September 2, 2024, 8:06 am

From upbringing and reinforcement to having achieved success, there are many reasons why some people have an inflated ego, bordering on narcissism. 

And how do we mostly recognize them? Well, the moment they open their mouth, they say something completely out of touch and self-serving. 

So, let’s dive a bit deeper into the phrases that reveal someone has an inflated ego and may be a narcissist.

1) “I’m always right, you know”

No matter what the topic is, they’ve always got to be the ones with the correct answer.

They simply believe they’re never wrong and always have the correct answer, even when they don’t.

They just can’t wrap their head around the idea that they don’t have all the answers, and it can be super frustrating trying to have a conversation with someone like that.

2) “Nobody does it better than me” 

They think they’re the best at everything and no one else can match their skills or abilities. 

Talk about being full of yourself, right? They have an inflated view of their own abilities, and they can’t help but let everyone know about it. 

Plus, it’s a slap in the face to anyone else who’s working hard and doing their best. Just because they think they’re top dogs doesn’t mean they actually are.

3) “I don’t need anyone’s help. I can handle everything myself” 

They’re the type who insists they can handle everything on their own, no matter what. That’s why they’ll happily refuse help or advice. They simply believe they’re more capable than anyone else.

And although asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, they seem to think it is. They’re trying to prove something to themselves and everyone else by going it alone, even when it’s clear they could use some support.

And hey, if that’s their choice, there’s nothing you can do about it. 

4) “People should be grateful to be in my presence” 

Oh man, that phrase is like the ultimate ego trip! It’s basically saying, “Hey, I’m so amazing that just being around me should be a privilege.” Talk about having an overinflated sense of self-importance!

Do they really expect everyone else to bow down and worship them just for gracing them with their presence?

But newsflash: nobody likes a big-headed show-off. Being grateful for the people around you is the way to go, not expecting them to worship the ground you walk on.

5) “I’m the best at everything I do” 

Ah, that one’s a real ego booster, isn’t it? They think they excel in every area of life and believe they’re superior to others in all aspects.

From cooking and sports to even tying their shoelaces, they’re convinced they’re the undisputed master. 

It’s cool to have confidence, but thinking you’re the best at everything? That’s like living in a fantasy world. 

Plus, it can rub people the wrong way, you know? Humility goes a long way, but they seem to have missed that memo.

6) “Haters gonna hate”

This is their go-to line when they’re faced with criticism or negativity. They dismiss any form of criticism as jealousy or misunderstanding, believing they’re untouchable and beyond reproach.

But come on, everyone faces haters now and then. Instead of brushing it off like it’s no big deal, maybe they could take a sec to consider if there’s any truth to what’s being said.

7) “I don’t need to explain myself”

And here we have their ultimate get-out-of-jail-free card. They’re basically saying, “I’m so above it all, I don’t owe anyone an explanation.”

They expect blind trust and obedience from others without giving any justification or transparency for their actions or decisions.

But, as we all know, communication is key in any relationship, whether it’s personal or professional. 

By shutting down the conversation before it even starts, they’re basically saying, “My way or the highway,” and that’s not a great way to build trust or understanding. 

8) “I’m too busy for that” 

Everyone’s got a hectic schedule, but using “busy” as a blanket excuse makes others feel like they’re not a priority.

The thing is, they also think everyday tasks are beneath them and expect others to take care of them while they focus on more important matters.

Can you imagine working or even living with someone with this mindset? Knowing that they’ll only put themselves in the first place and anyone and everything below that is incredibly frustrating. 

I mean, who are they? POTUS?

9) “I’m the victim here”

Some people are stuck in this perpetual victim mentality, where nothing is ever their fault. 

They refuse to take responsibility for their actions and blame others or external circumstances for their failures.

And while that mostly works out great for them, it’s incredibly frustrating for everyone else. 

Still, I firmly believe that playing the victim might get them sympathy points in the short term, but it won’t get them anywhere in the long run.

People see through them sooner or later. 

10) “I’m too good for that”

When you have an inflated ego, and you’re a narcissist or close to it, you’re acting all high and mighty. 

We’ve all seen such people. Some of us even have to live with them. 

That’s how we know they believe certain tasks or activities are beneath them because they consider themselves too important or valuable.

But come on, we all gotta pitch in and do our part, right? Thinking you’re too good for certain tasks just comes off as snobby and, let’s face it, enormously stuck-up.

11) “I deserve more recognition”

When someone says, “I deserve more recognition,” they feel they should receive more acknowledgment and praise than anyone else, regardless of others’ contributions.

They’re basically saying they should get all the credit, even if others are putting in just as much effort. 

I really believe they have this spotlight addiction, always craving attention and praise. Don’t expect them to change anytime soon. Or ever, for that matter. 

12) “I don’t care about other people’s feelings” 

If there’s one thing we’ve learned by now, it’s that they don’t care about other people’s feelings. 

Above all else, they prioritize their own desires and needs. It’s like they have tunnel vision, only focused on their own wants and needs, without giving a second thought to how their actions might affect others.

I guess you could try to help them understand other perspectives. It may or may not work, but at least you’ll know you tried. 

13) “I should be in charge”

These same people also want to be the big boss. They want to call the shots without considering if they’re the best person for the job.

They believe they’re more qualified and capable than others to lead and make decisions.

But leadership is way more than just a fancy title. It’s about working together, listening to others, and making decisions that benefit the whole crew. 

14) “There’s nothing wrong with me” 

Oh, boy. Where do we even start with this one, right? Regularly, the person saying this has an almost endless list of things wrong with them. 

Of course, they absolutely refuse to acknowledge their flaws or mistakes, believing they’re perfect and faultless.

This attitude comes from a combination of sources, such as deep-seated insecurities, fear of judgment, or a desire to keep control over their self-image. 

With so many underlying reasons, you’ll never know what’s actually their problem. And ultimately, it will stop them from getting genuine self-awareness and personal growth.

Final thoughts

Dealing with these people is never easy, is it? Sometimes, I’m tempted to whip out my phone and film them like a Karen. 

I’d like to show them back the footage and see their honest reaction to their self-entitled behavior.