Flashy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing something that is eye-catching, often because it is bright, colorful, or elaborate. Can sometimes imply a lack of subtlety or sophistication.

• His flashy car caught everyone's attention at the party
• Her dress was a bit too flashy for the occasion

Describes something that is excessively bright or colorful, and is often considered unattractive or in bad taste. Has a negative connotation.

• The garish neon signs lit up the street, making it hard to look at
• Her garish makeup was too much for a casual dinner

Used when something is very bright or attention-grabbing, in a way that can be overpowering for others. Often has a negative nuance.

• His loud shirt made him stand out in the crowd
• The loud decorations seemed out of place in such a formal setting

Refers to something designed to be very noticeable or attractive, but can sometimes imply a lack of depth or substance.

• The showy fireworks display amazed everyone
• His showy gestures at the meeting were meant to draw attention

Describes behavior or items that are meant to impress others with how much money or luxury someone has. Usually implies showing off in an inappropriate or excessive way.

• Her ostentatious display of wealth at the charity event was quite off-putting
• The mansion was filled with ostentatious furniture pieces

Flashy is suitable for describing something that is showy and meant to attract attention, often implying a lack of subtlety.

• He drove a flashy sports car that caught everyone's eye.
• Her flashy jewelry sparkled in the sunlight.

Ostentatious is used when describing something designed to impress or attract notice, often with a connotation of bad taste or pretentiousness.

• Their ostentatious display of wealth annoyed many of their friends.
• The palace was filled with ostentatious decorations.

Pretentious is best used when describing people or things that try to seem more important, impressive, or higher status than they really are.

• His pretentious speech made everyone roll their eyes.
• The cafe had a pretentious air, with overpriced items and snooty staff.

Extravagant is ideal for situations involving over-the-top spending or luxury, emphasizing excessiveness and luxury.

• They threw an extravagant wedding with hundreds of guests.
• His extravagant lifestyle made headlines in gossip magazines.

Using flamboyant is appropriate when referring to something bold, colorful, and lively, often in a stylish or theatrical manner.

• Her flamboyant outfit turned heads wherever she went.
• He was known for his flamboyant performances on stage.