Affront Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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affront
[ษหfrสnt ]
Definitions
social interaction
An affront is a deliberate insult or offensive act.
Synonyms
insult, offense, outrage, slight.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
affront |
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.
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insult |
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.
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offense |
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.
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slight |
This word suggests a minor or less obvious action that shows disrespect. It can also imply an unintentional act of disrespect.
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outrage |
This word is best used for situations that cause strong feelings of shock, anger, or indignation. It implies a drastic or extreme reaction.
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Examples of usage
- He regarded the comment as an affront to his dignity.
- She took his rudeness as a personal affront.
- The decision to exclude her was seen as an affront to the team.
- The painting was considered an affront to traditional values.
- I cannot tolerate such affronts to my integrity.
social interaction
To affront someone means to offend or insult them deliberately.
Synonyms
displease, insult, offend, outrage.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
affront |
This word is used when a person or action causes public outrage or offense, often intentional and seen as disrespectful.
|
insult |
This word is used when someone says or does something that is demeaning or disrespectful to another person. It is direct and typically intentional.
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offend |
This word refers to causing someone emotional hurt or discomfort, either intentionally or unintentionally. It can range from minor to serious.
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outrage |
This word is used to describe something that causes extreme anger or shock. It often denotes a reaction to something seriously offensive or unacceptable.
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displease |
This word is used to describe causing slight annoyance or dissatisfaction. It is less intense than 'insult' or 'outrage'.
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Examples of usage
- He felt affronted by her remarks.
- She was affronted by his lack of respect.
- The ambassador was affronted by the lack of hospitality.
- The behavior of the guest affronted the host.
- The company's advertisement affronted many viewers.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, affronting someone is considered a serious breach of etiquette, often leading to feuds or conflicts.
- Literature frequently depicts affronts as catalysts for dramatic confrontations, highlighting the human tendency to react to perceived slights.
- In some societies, facing an affront can compel individuals to restore honor or dignity through reconciliation or revenge.
Psychology
- Experiencing an affront can trigger feelings of anger or humiliation, highlighting our innate need for respect and recognition.
- Studies suggest that the perception of an affront is subjective; what offends one person might not bother another.
- Defensive responses to an affront often reveal underlying insecurities or social hierarchies in interpersonal relationships.
Literature
- Classic literature often explores themes of affront through conflicts between characters, including Shakespeare's many plays, where honor and insult drive the plot.
- Contemporary novels utilize affronts to develop character arcs, showing growth or decline based on how characters respond to disrespect.
- Poetry often captures the emotional fallout of affronts, reflecting on the delicate balance between pride and vulnerability.
Media & Arts
- Films often depict affronts as pivotal moments, leading to major character developments or moral dilemmas.
- Visual art sometimes portrays affronts using symbolism, where body language or facial expressions indicate conflict or tension.
- Music lyrics frequently address themes of insult and affront, resonating with audiences who relate to these emotional experiences.
Origin of 'affront'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'affront' comes from the Latin 'affrontare', which means 'to confront'.
- It entered the English language in the early 17th century, showcasing its long-standing use in discussions of manners and respect.
- Originally used in a physical sense, meaning to strike or thrust upon someone.
The word 'affront' originated from the Middle French word 'afront', which means 'to strike in the face' or 'to insult'. The term evolved over time to represent a deliberate insult or offensive act. It has been used in English since the 14th century.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #17,983, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 17980 portraying
- 17981 rebuked
- 17982 drone
- 17983 affront
- 17984 unacquainted
- 17985 debilitating
- 17986 evangelist
- ...