Extravagantly Meaning: Definition and Examples
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extravagantly
[ΙͺkΛstrΓ¦v.Ι.Ι‘Ιnt.li ]
Definitions
in a showy or excessive manner
If you do something extravagantly, you do it in a very grand and impressive way, often spending more money than necessary.
Synonyms
lavishly, ostentatiously, sumptuously.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| extravagantly |
Suitable for describing spending or behavior that goes beyond what is reasonable or necessary, often involving a lot of money and extravagance.
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| lavishly |
Used when describing something done in a rich, generous, and luxurious manner, often implying a positive outcome.
|
| ostentatiously |
Appropriate for describing actions or items that are meant to attract attention, admiration, or envy, often with a negative connotation implying pretentiousness or showiness.
|
| sumptuously |
Best for describing things that are very luxurious, rich, and expensive, often involving high-quality materials or opulent settings.
|
Examples of usage
- He lived extravagantly, always staying in the most luxurious hotels.
- She dressed extravagantly, wearing designer clothes and expensive jewelry.
- The party was thrown extravagantly, with a live band and a gourmet catering.
in a flamboyant or dramatic way
If you behave extravagantly, you do so in a flamboyant or dramatic manner, drawing attention to yourself.
Synonyms
dramatically, flamboyantly, theatrically.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| extravagantly |
Used to describe something done with excessive spending or in an overly lavish manner.
|
| dramatically |
Used to describe an action or situation that is very intense or has a significant emotional impact.
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| flamboyantly |
Used to describe actions or appearances that are very colorful, flashy, or extravagant and often intended to attract attention.
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| theatrically |
Used to describe actions that are exaggerated and performed in a manner similar to acting in a theater, often to create a dramatic effect.
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Examples of usage
- She performed the song extravagantly, with elaborate dance moves and vocal acrobatics.
- He spoke extravagantly, using colorful language and exaggerated gestures.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Throughout history, lavish celebrations, such as royal weddings, often included extravagant displays to showcase power and wealth.
- In modern times, extravagant fashions in cities like Paris or Milan drive trends, often leading to significant influence on popular culture.
- The concept of living extravagantly has been celebrated in literature and media, symbolizing success and aspirations, especially in stories like 'The Great Gatsby.'
Psychology
- People often associate extravagant spending with happiness, as it can provide temporary joy or excitement.
- Research suggests that individuals may indulge extravagantly to compensate for stress or to create a positive self-image.
- The idea of 'keeping up with the Joneses' showcases how societal pressures can lead people to act extravagantly to appear affluent.
Economics
- Extravagant spending can stimulate the economy by increasing demand for luxury goods and services.
- However, excessive extravagance can lead to debt if individuals or businesses overspend beyond their means.
- Luxury brands often use extravagance in marketing to attract wealthy customers, defining status through high prices and exclusive experiences.
Art and Architecture
- Extravagant styles in Baroque architecture featured grand designs and opulent materials, representing power and glory.
- Many modern art installations aim to challenge the concept of extravagance, either by critiquing consumerism or embracing it in innovative ways.
- In fashion, extravagant collections often push boundaries, sparking discussions about art versus commerce in clothing design.
Origin of 'extravagantly'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'extravagant' comes from the Latin 'extravagari,' meaning 'to wander outside,' hinting at going beyond limits.
- The suffix '-ly' shows how the word describes actions, turning 'extravagant' into how something is done excessively.
- Used since the 15th century, it reflects cultural attitudes over time about wealth and spending.
The word 'extravagantly' comes from the Latin word 'extravagantem', meaning 'wandering outside'. It originally referred to something that was outside the bounds of reason or moderation. Over time, it has come to be associated with excessive or flamboyant behavior, often related to spending or display of wealth.
See also: extravagance, extravagant.