1.
complex, insecurity, hang-up
A feeling of inferiority or deep insecurity about a particular aspect of oneself, such as appearance, ability, or background.
Common patterns
- Xがコンプレックスだ: X is my insecurity
- コンプレックスを持つ: to have a complex
- コンプレックスを克服する: to overcome a complex
- コンプレックスを感じる: to feel insecure
Similar words
- 劣等感: inferiority complex (more formal, psychological term)
- 引け目: feeling of inferiority, sense of inadequacy
Usage
Unlike English, where "complex" can refer to any psychological complex (Oedipus complex, etc.), Japanese コンプレックス almost always means an inferiority complex or personal insecurity.