Which word describes someone who believes they are better than they actually are, often showing off?

The term "pretentious" accurately describes someone who has an inflated sense of self-importance or talent, often believing themselves to be superior to others. Such individuals frequently showcase their abilities or possessions in an exaggerated way to impress others, even if their actual capabilities do not support such a belief. This behavior can create a façade that misleads others about their true worth or skills.

In contrast, "prodigal" refers to someone who is wastefully extravagant or lavish, typically in reference to spending resources; it does not inherently denote someone’s perception of their own superiority. "Problematic" simply describes something that poses issues or difficulties, lacking the nuance regarding self-perception or boasting. "Prevaricate" means to be deliberately ambiguous or to evade the truth, which focuses on dishonesty rather than self-aggrandizement. Thus, the term "pretentious" is the most fitting description for someone who believes they are better than they actually are while often showing off.