Conversations and social dynamics can often reveal how people perceive each other’s intellect—as an individual, it’s crucial that we are acknowledged, appreciated, and respected for our intellect.

Unfortunately, sometimes we encounter people who believe they’re intellectually superior to us.

While some may be discreet, others do things that suggest they think they’re intellectually superior.

This intellectual superiority can manifest in various forms—subtle or obvious, silent or outspoken—so psychologists made some research and have identified several signs that may indicate someone thinks they’re intellectually superior to you.

Here are 9 signs someone might display when they think they’re intellectually above you:

1) They constantly correct you

It’s normal for people to correct each other in a conversation, especially when the subject matter is something they’re passionate about.

However, constant correction can often come off as condescending or patronizing.

You may find this person nitpicking at your choice of words or the accuracy of your facts, even when the conversation doesn’t call for such precision.

In some cases, they may do this publicly, trying to display their intellectual prowess to others; in others, they might do it privately, creating a dynamic where they position themselves as the ‘teacher’ and you as the ‘student’.

2) They monopolize conversations

In any healthy interaction, conversation should be a two-way street.

These ‘intellectually superior’ might constantly interrupt or talk over you, disregarding your input or opinions, by steering the conversation towards topics they are knowledgeable about, leaving little room for you to contribute meaningfully.

And don’t forget their tendency to dismiss your ideas without proper consideration, making you feel as though your thoughts or opinions are less valuable.

A behavior like this alone can lead to feelings of frustration and inferiority, hindering the development of a balanced and respectful relationship.

3) They rarely ask for your opinion

You might think that someone who believes they’re intellectually superior would consistently challenge your viewpoints or engage in intellectual debates with you—interestingly, the opposite is often true.

In every conversation with them, there’s always the assumption that their thoughts, ideas, or perspectives are always the best or the most correct.

Those people have this belief that there’s little they can learn from you or anyone else because they hold their intellectual capacity in such high regard.

Consequently, they don’t often seek your input or engage in open, balanced discussions.

This kind of behavior can limit the depth and breadth of conversations and, over time, can make you feel undervalued and overlooked.

4) They belittle your accomplishments

There’s nothing more disheartening than sharing your achievements with someone, only to have them downplay or belittle them. 

Perhaps you share a new idea at work and they dismiss it as “nothing special,” or you pass an exam and they comment on how “anyone could have done it.”—they may even try to overshadow your accomplishments with their own, turning the focus back onto themselves.

It’s hurtful and incredibly damaging that it can erode your self-esteem and make you question your own worth.

Nobody should have the power to make you feel less than what you are.

Your accomplishments are valid and worthy of celebration, regardless of what anyone else might say.

5) They struggle to admit when they’re wrong

Nobody enjoys being wrong, but most of us accept it as a part of life.

We learn, we grow, and we move on—but, if you’re dealing with someone who thinks they’re intellectually superior, admitting they’re wrong can be a real struggle for them.

In their eyes, being wrong could shatter the illusion of their intellectual superiority.

As a result, they might go to great lengths to prove they are right, even when evidence suggests otherwise.

While it can be frustrating to deal with such stubbornness, it’s essential to remember that this behavior often stems from a place of insecurity.

It’s not an excuse for their actions, but understanding this can help you approach the situation with more empathy and patience.

6) They always have to have the last word

We all know someone who always has to have the last word in a discussion, don’t we?

It’s as if wrapping up the conversation with their input somehow stamps their authority on it.

They may feel an intense need to conclude discussions on their terms, or may keep pushing their point until you give in, just to end the debate.

This can happen even in casual conversations, turning simple chats into exhausting battles.

7) They frequently use big words

Ever talked to someone who seems to have swallowed a thesaurus?

They use big, complicated words—sometimes out of context—just to sound smart.

Those who think they’re intelligently above the people they interact with may pepper their sentences with fancy jargon, academic language, or obscure references.

While it can be amusing (and a little baffling, if I may add) to listen to, it’s often just a way for them to showcase their ‘superior’ intelligence.

True intelligence is about clear and effective communication.

The next time they throw a ‘quintessential’ or ‘antidisestablishmentarianism’ into the conversation, just smile and nod.

8) They never seem impressed with anyone else

If you’ve noticed that someone never seems impressed by the ideas, achievements, or intellect of others, you’ll fine them easily dismissing others’ accomplishments as insignificant or trivialize their ideas as ‘common sense.’

You can expect them to roll their eyes at a colleague’s presentation or give a sarcastic laugh when a friend shares an idea—this attitude can be tough to be around, especially when it’s someone you have to interact with regularly.

However, don’t let their negativity impact your view of yourself or others.

Their lack of appreciation for others is more indicative of their arrogant mindset than the actual value of anyone else’s contributions.

Keep shining and valuing others—it shows true intellectual maturity.

9) They lack emotional intelligence

Intellectual superiority is concocted by both the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and the Emotional Quotient (EQ).

Should a person be dismissive of others’ feelings, lack empathy, or struggle to build genuine connections, it could be a valid indicator that they have this mindset of being intellectually superior than the rest.

Sure, they might be quick to flaunt their logical prowess or academic achievements—however, they often overlook the importance of emotional understanding, effective listening, and compassion, which are the key components of emotional intelligence.

Genuine intellectual superiority encompasses both IQ and EQ.

Even if they seem to look down on you intellectually, keep in mind that intellectual prowess isn’t the sole measure of a person’s worth or capability.

Wrapping it up

Navigating relationships with those who think they’re intellectually superior can be challenging and emotionally draining.

Author Debbie Millman quotes, “If you imagine less, less will be what you undoubtedly deserve.”

Don’t let someone’s perceived intellectual superiority undermine your self-belief or limit your potential, as your ideas and contributions matter.

Everyone has unique strengths and weaknesses—intellectual arrogance is more a sign of lacking emotional intelligence than true superiority.

Reflect on these signs; if they feel familiar, consider reassessing your relationship with that person.

You deserve respect, kindness, and equality—so don’t settle for less because you’re worth more.