ONE UPMANSHIP Meaning and
Definition
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One-upmanship is a term used to describe the act of trying to gain advantage or superiority over others, particularly in a competitive or social setting. It is an inclination or behavior characterized by constantly attempting to outdo or surpass others in order to assert one's dominance or demonstrate one's superiority. The term often implies a sense of rivalry or one-sided competition.
The use of one-upmanship typically involves a series of verbal, physical, or even psychological actions aimed at one-upping someone else's achievements, accomplishments, or experiences. This can include showcasing one's superior skills, knowledge, possessions, or achievements to make others feel inferior or inadequate. The intention is to bolster one's own ego or enhance one's social status by demeaning or overshadowing others.
One-upmanship can manifest in various forms, such as boasting about personal accomplishments, belittling others, engaging in constant self-promotion, or trivializing others' achievements. It is often motivated by a desire for recognition, validation, or a thirst for power and control within a particular group or social dynamic.
Though one-upmanship can create a competitive atmosphere and may lead to strained relationships, it is frequently viewed negatively due to its potential to generate feelings of resentment and hostility among individuals. Consequently, it is important to strike a balance between healthy competition and destructive one-upmanship in order to maintain harmonious social interactions.
Common Misspellings for ONE UPMANSHIP
Etymology of ONE UPMANSHIP
The term "one-upmanship" is a noun that derives from the phrase "one up", which means to surpass or outdo someone. This phrase was coined in the 1950s by British comic writer Stephen Potter in his book "The Theory and Practice of Gamesmanship: Or the Art of Winning Games Without Actually Cheating". Potter used the term to describe the practice of gaining an advantage or winning at games by using psychological techniques. Over time, "one-upmanship" entered the English language as a word, describing the act of trying to outdo others in various aspects of life, not only in games but also in social situations or conversations.
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