Affront: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone does something that shows a lack of respect or is openly disrespectful. It often implies that the action was deliberate.

• Her comment about his job was an affront to his hard work.
• He took their laughter as an affront to his dignity.

This word is appropriate when describing a remark or action intended to hurt someone's feelings or self-esteem. It conveys a direct and personal attack.

• She felt insulted by his sarcastic remarks.
• Calling him lazy was a direct insult.

This word fits when referring to something that causes someone to feel upset or angry, though it could be unintended. It can also refer to a breach of law or custom.

• He took offense at her blunt criticism.
• Wearing such a casual outfit to the formal event was seen as an offense.

This word suggests a minor or less obvious action that shows disrespect. It can also imply an unintentional act of disrespect.

• She felt slighted when she was not invited to the meeting.
• The oversight was a slight that she couldn't easily forget.

This word is best used for situations that cause strong feelings of shock, anger, or indignation. It implies a drastic or extreme reaction.

• The unfair treatment of the workers caused public outrage.
• Sending the children to work in harsh conditions was an outrage.

This word is used when a person or action causes public outrage or offense, often intentional and seen as disrespectful.

• His comments were an affront to the entire community.
• She took it as a personal affront when he ignored her at the party.

This word is used when someone says or does something that is demeaning or disrespectful to another person. It is direct and typically intentional.

• He insulted her by calling her work useless.
• The comedian's jokes were seen as insulting by many audience members.

This word refers to causing someone emotional hurt or discomfort, either intentionally or unintentionally. It can range from minor to serious.

• His remarks about her dress offended her.
• It is easy to offend someone if you are not careful with your words.

This word is used to describe something that causes extreme anger or shock. It often denotes a reaction to something seriously offensive or unacceptable.

• The decision to raise taxes sparked public outrage.
• She was outraged by the unfair treatment she received.

This word is used to describe causing slight annoyance or dissatisfaction. It is less intense than 'insult' or 'outrage'.

• His behavior at the meeting displeased his colleagues.
• The movie's ending may displease some fans of the book.