11 Signs of an Arrogant Partner: Is Your Relationship Built on Ego?

In relationships, you desire a partner who complements your strengths and supports your dreams, right? Yet, a partner’s inflated ego can sometimes overshadow that dream.

This may lead you to question whether your relationship is based on mutual respect or simply satisfying their need for superiority.

This post will explore 11 key signs of an arrogant partner.

We’ll delve deeper than just unmet expectations, focusing on behaviors that constantly chip away at the foundation of your connection.

Recognizing these warning signs allows you to assess if your relationship is truly a result of mutual understanding or if it’s more of a one-sided ego trip.

Understand what an arrogant partner is and how it differs from healthy confidence.

Have you ever wondered if your partner’s swagger might be a bit…? It’s a valid concern!

We’re talking about signs of an arrogant partner. Do you ever feel like your partner thinks they’re better than you?

An arrogant partner is someone who always wants to be the boss and doesn’t care about your feelings. They might even make you feel inferior.

Conversely, a confident partner feels good about themselves but still respects others. They don’t need to put others down to feel good.

Imagine that your teammate just aced a work presentation! You’re beaming, ready to celebrate their success.

But instead of a radiant smile, they dramatically sigh. “Ugh, that presentation was a disaster,” they say with a playful eye roll. “Guess I’m just naturally gifted, right?”

This might seem like playful self-deprecation, but it could be a sign of an arrogant partner!

Confidence and arrogance can be tricky to tell apart, but there’s a big difference.

A confident partner inspires you, celebrates your wins, and believes in your potential.

An arrogant partner, in contrast, constantly downplays your achievements, but in a way that fishes for compliments.

11 Signs of an Arrogant Partner

Have you ever wondered if your partner’s confidence has turned into arrogance? This is a major concern because arrogance can slowly erode a relationship’s foundation. Here are 11 signs to watch out for:

1. This partner always notices your flaws.

Does your partner have a Hawkeye eye for your flaws but appear blind to their own?

This might be a sign of an arrogant partner! Imagine spending hours cooking a special meal, excited to share it with your significant other.

An arrogant partner, instead of appreciating the effort, might point out a slightly burnt corner or a seasoning they “don’t quite like.”

This constant barrage of criticism can leave you feeling like you always do something that’s not right.

Imagine you pick out a new outfit feeling confident. An arrogant partner might exclaim, “Those jeans don’t quite flatter you,” instead of offering a compliment.

An arrogant partner is someone who has a very inflated sense of self. They might see themselves as flawless and view your mistakes as major downfalls.

Their focus remains on your flaws, making you feel insecure and unimportant.

This relentless negativity chips away at your self-esteem and leaves you questioning if the relationship will thrive on a foundation of mutual respect or just their own inflated ego. 

Is your relationship a supportive team, or are you continually striving to meet your partner’s unreasonable expectations?

Let’s move on to the 2nd sign.

2. This type of partner is always unhappy with their relationship with you.

Does your partner constantly bring down the mood with complaints about your relationship? Even when you try your best, is it?

This could be a warning sign of an arrogant partner!

Imagine planning a romantic weekend getaway only for your partner, who keeps complaining about little things. An arrogant partner is someone who values themselves profoundly.

They constantly focus on the negatives in your relationship, making you feel like you’re constantly falling short.

They don’t even thank you for the time and money you spent with them.

Think about the last time you two did something together. Did your partner point out flaws or criticize aspects of the activity instead of focusing on enjoying the experience?

This negativity can leave you perplexed, wondering if their happiness, rather than a healthy balance between the two of you, underpins the entire relationship.

Is your relationship a team effort, or do you constantly think you’re walking on eggshells, trying not to upset your partner?

This post will help you identify some more red flags, figure out ways to move forward, or realize it might be time for a change.

Remember, a healthy relationship should make you feel supported and loved, not constantly criticized and down.

3. This partner always considers you insignificant and belittles you.

Do your brilliant ideas seem to stall when you share them with your partner? This might be a warning sign of an arrogant partner!

Imagine picturing the perfect date night: a cozy restaurant with live music, followed by a walk under the twinkling city lights.

A sigh and a dismissive “Ugh, that sounds so cheesy” greet you as you excitedly share your vision.

Let’s just order takeout and watch another documentary.

An arrogant partner is someone who believes that they have all the answers and that their way is the only way.

They constantly belittle your suggestions and make you feel like your voice doesn’t matter in the relationship.

This negativity can make you feel unheard and unimportant, leading you to question whether your relationship is based on mutual respect or simply their inflated ego.

Is your relationship supposed to be a fun team adventure, or do you feel like you’re constantly having to downsize your dreams to fit their mold?

4. This partner sticks to their own point of view.

Does your partner always have to be right, even when they’re wrong?

Picture this: You’re excitedly planning a weekend getaway, overflowing with ideas for museums, hikes, and cozy cafes.

But your partner seems glued to their phone, dismissing every suggestion with a grunt and a “Nah, not feeling it.”

This might be a sign of an arrogant partner!

Imagine a relationship where compromise feels like pulling teeth.

An arrogant partner is someone who believes their opinion is the only valid one. Even when presented with evidence or alternative viewpoints, they may persistently maintain their position.

This relentless need to be right leaves you feeling unheard and frustrated.

Is your relationship like a balanced team where you both feel that your voices matter? Or do you constantly downplay your opinions to avoid conflict?

This need for control can lead you to question whether your relationship is based on a healthy foundation of reciprocity or simply on their inflated ego.

5. This type of partner is mostly lazy and idle.

Surprise Alert! You’ve spent all day buzzing with excitement, planning a romantic night in.

You’ve picked out a clean apartment, a delicious meal, and even the perfect movie.

But when you return home, eager to share the magic, you find your partner sprawled on the couch, oblivious. This might be a sign of an arrogant partner!

Imagine a relationship where you’re constantly the planner, the chef, and the emotional cheerleader.

An arrogant partner feels entitled to enjoy all the perks of a relationship without contributing. They expect you to make plans, cook meals, and attend to their emotional needs.

This lack of effort breeds burnout and resentment. Are you making a team effort or continuously assuming both roles?

This one-sided dynamic makes you question the foundation.

Does your connection thrive on mutual respect and teamwork, or does it simply cater to their inflated ego?

6. They are naturally self-centered.

Ever feel like your partner has a built-in spotlight that only shines on them? This could be a sign of an arrogant partner!

Imagine having a comfy night in, wanting to chat and unwind.

An arrogant partner is someone who naturally says everything about themselves.

They constantly dominate conversations, interrupting you with their latest achievement or planning activities that only pique their interest.

This constant self-absorption leaves you feeling like a forgotten background character, wondering if your relationship is about healthy give-and-take or just their need to be the center of the universe.

Is your relationship supposed to be a fun team adventure where both get to shine? Or do you constantly play the audience to your partner’s one-person show?

This imbalance can make you question the foundation of your connection. Does it thrive on mutual respect and teamwork, or does it simply cater to their inflated ego?

7. This type of partner always gossips about or with you.

While catching up with a friend over coffee, you lean in with a juicy tidbit about a coworker.

But before you can whisper, your partner suddenly arrives and hijacks the conversation with their latest gossip!

This might be a sign of an arrogant partner.

An arrogant partner thrives on gossip, constantly spilling tea (sometimes even yours!) about everyone they know.

This excessive gossiping can be hurtful, especially if you confide in them, hoping for trust.

Is your relationship supposed to be a safe space for sharing secrets, a place where trust is a cornerstone?

Or do you always find that you need to hold back because you’re afraid your partner will blab to the next person they meet?

It can be quite thought-provoking to consider whether your connection grows on mutual respect and confidentiality or simply their inflated desire to be the neighborhood’s (or even your loved ones’) news source.

8. This partner doubts everything you say or do.

Imagine planning a fun date night, buzzing with excitement about trying that new French recipe you found.

You picture a romantic evening filled with delicious smells and laughter.

But as soon as you suggest this, your partner throws you a look of surprise, as if you’ve spilled the milk. “French food? Are you sure you can handle this….?”

This might be a sign of an arrogant partner!

An arrogant partner is someone who constantly doubts your abilities, questioning your every suggestion and decision.

No matter what you propose, from a new restaurant to a weekend activity, they scoff and dismiss it, implying you lack the skills or knowledge to pull it off.

Should your relationship function as a supportive team, where you both feel confident and encouraged to try new things?

Or do you constantly question your ideas, wondering if anything you suggest will ever be good enough?

This constant negativity leaves you feeling discouraged and unsure of yourself.

Is your relationship supposed to be a supportive partnership where you lift each other up and celebrate each other’s strengths? Or do you hesitate to propose anything for fear of their disapproval? 

This dynamic can make you question the very foundation of your connection. Does your love thrive solely on satisfying their inflated ego, or is there a need to control something?

9. They can even harm you for their own gain.

Imagine a situation that explodes into a tense, shouting match again this week. Suddenly, during the argument, your partner verbally (or physically) lashes you out.

The shock and hurt hit you like a wave—a sickening combination of physical and emotional pain. This isn’t the first time their anger has turned aggressive, either.

This could be a major sign of an arrogant partner in a dangerous situation. 

An arrogant partner prioritizes themselves above all else, even resorting to physical harm or threats to get their way. They might use intimidation or manipulation to control you, making you feel unsafe and unheard. 

This kind of behavior is a serious red flag.

It is mutual respect that builds a healthy relationship, not violence or threats. Various domestic violence resources can provide support if you’re experiencing this kind of behavior.

Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance. No relationship, regardless of its duration, is worth enduring abuse.

10. This partner always has high expectations that are difficult for you to fulfill.

Imagine spending all afternoon cleaning the house, excited to see your partner’s joyful reaction. Everything sparkles, from the windows to the floors.

But when they walk in, their expression falls. “It looks good,” they say, “but remember that open house we went to last weekend? Their place was spotless! We also must have a cleaning crew.”

This could be a sign of an arrogant partner!

An arrogant partner always has sky-high expectations that are nearly impossible to fulfill. They might constantly criticize your efforts, even comparing them to something way out of reach.

Or they’ll suggest some future ideas that seem out of reach and ridiculous to you.

This negativity leaves you feeling like you’re in a never-ending game of chase, constantly striving to meet their ever-changing standards but never quite reaching the finish line.

Should your relationship be a supportive partnership where you value each other’s efforts? 

Or are you constantly pushing yourself to the limit, wondering if anything you do will ever be good enough for them?

This dynamic can make you question the very foundation of your connection.

Does your love thrive on mutual respect and appreciation, or does it simply cater to their inflated ego and need to feel superior?

11. This type of partner prioritizes their own comfort over yours, disregarding it.

Imagine a peaceful evening at home. You sink into the couch, ready to unwind. But as you reach for the remote, your partner swoops in and snatches it! 

They adeptly navigate through channels, dismissing your recommendations with a simple gesture. “Nah, this show’s way better,” they say.

This could be a sign of an arrogant partner!

These partners prioritize their own comfort above yours, completely disregarding your wishes. 

They hog the controls, choose activities you dislike, or come to conclusions without considering your needs.

This disregard can make you feel like an afterthought, making you question whether your relationship is based on a collaborative effort or just their unwavering pursuit of happiness.

Should you both feel heard and respected in your relationship, creating a balanced team? Or do you constantly play second fiddle, questioning if your needs ever matter?

This can make you doubt the very foundation of your connection. 

Does your love thrive on mutual respect and consideration, or does it simply cater to their inflated ego and need to be in control?

Dealing with an Arrogant Partner: Can You Make It Work?

So, you’ve identified some signs of an arrogant partner. Now what? This can be a tough situation, but there are ways to navigate it.

Open communication is key. Try a heart-to-heart. Explain how their behavior makes you feel. Maybe they’re oblivious, and a gentle nudge can course-correct things.

But there’s a limit: If their arrogance turns into constant put-downs, disrespect, or controlling behavior, it’s a major red flag. Is your relationship based on mutual respect or merely an ego trip? You deserve happiness.

Your Toolbox for Battling Arrogance

Is your partner behaving in a grandiose manner? Have a look at these concise tricks to help you handle this. This toolbox has tools to talk to your partner and make things fairer!

Take a break

When they become self-absorbed, politely excuse yourself and focus on something you enjoy.

Focus on you

Pursue your hobbies and interests to remind yourself of your awesomeness.

Suggest Couples Counseling

A therapist can be a game-changer, helping you communicate effectively.

Learn to say “no”

Don’t be afraid to set boundaries and voice your needs clearly.

Show, don’t tell

Sometimes, a little healthy competition can be a wake-up call (e.g., mastering that skill they brag about). But use this with caution! 

Do you feel unheard?

Master Assertive Communication

Learn techniques to express your needs confidently.

Fight Fire with (Careful) Fire

A little healthy competition can be a nudge, but remember, this is a last resort!

Remember, You Have Options: If their arrogance continues, it might be time for a more serious conversation. You deserve to feel valued in your relationship.

Final Thoughts: Building a Love Nest, Not an Ego Trip

A relationship should be a haven, a place where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to be your best self. If your partner’s arrogance is slowly eroding that sense of security, it’s time to pause and consider the path forward.

Remember, a healthy relationship isn’t a competition. It’s about celebrating each other’s successes, offering support during challenges, and working together to navigate life’s storms.

The good news is that even if arrogance has taken root, there’s always a chance to rebuild. Open communication is key. To express how their behavior makes you feel, focus on “I” statements.

Listen actively, trying to understand their perspective without compromising your own needs.

Setting healthy boundaries is also crucial. Don’t be afraid to say “no” when their preferences clash with yours. Learn to express your needs clearly and establish boundaries that protect your well-being.

Remember, a happy and confident you are essential for a thriving relationship. Invest in your own growth by nurturing your hobbies and interests.

Sometimes, professional help can be a game-changer. A therapist can provide a safe space and guide you both towards healthier dynamics in the relationship. 

Ultimately, the choice is yours. Do you desire a one-sided show where your partner’s ego dominates, or do you long for a genuine partnership based on mutual respect and love?

Remember, you deserve to feel valued and appreciated for who you are, not just tolerated for what your partner can gain.

Finally, you have the power to build the love nest you deserve.

A place where your partner hears your voice, supports your dreams wholeheartedly, and shares your happiness as a journey rather than a solitary pursuit.