Flout: meaning, definitions and examples
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flout
[flaʊt ]
Definitions
legal term
To flout means to openly disregard a rule, law, or convention. It implies a deliberate action taken to show contempt or disrespect towards authority or established norms.
Synonyms
defy, disregard, jeer, mock, scorn.
Examples of usage
- Many drivers flout traffic laws without fear.
- The company was fined for flouting environmental regulations.
- Students should not flout school rules.
- She flouted societal expectations by choosing an unconventional career.
- He continued to flout the advice of medical professionals.
social behavior
In a broader social context, flouting can refer to challenging social norms or behaviors with an attitude of nonchalance. This often involves a playful or rebellious spirit that aims to provoke reactions.
Synonyms
challenge, contradict, provocation.
Examples of usage
- The artist flouted traditional norms in her latest work.
- He loves to flout conventions during family gatherings.
- They flouted typical fashion rules at the gala.
- Flouting social etiquette became their signature style.
- Many young people flout old traditions in favor of modern lifestyles.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term originates from the Middle English word 'flouten', meaning to mock or scorn.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'flúta', which means to play the flute, suggesting a light-hearted disregard.
- The earliest recorded use of ‘flout’ dates back to the 15th century, reflecting both mockery and casual defiance.
Legal Context
- In legal terms, flouting laws can lead to civil liabilities or fines, especially if done knowingly.
- Judges often take into account whether a party has flouted court orders when deciding on penalties.
- Flouting regulations in business can lead to investigations by regulatory bodies, highlighting the risks involved.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, flouting social norms can be seen as an act of rebellion and is often celebrated in art and music.
- Pop culture icons frequently flout societal expectations, challenging norms and encouraging others to think outside the box.
- Historical figures, like civil rights activists, have famously flouted unfair laws to advocate for change.
Psychology
- Psychologically, the act of flouting can stem from a desire for individuality and personal freedom.
- Studies suggest that people who regularly flout rules may feel less pressure to conform and value personal ethics over social agreements.
- Flouting can sometimes be a form of social rebellion, allowing individuals to express dissatisfaction with authority.
Literature
- Many characters in classic literature, like Shakespeare’s fools, flout societal norms with humor and wit, often revealing deeper truths.
- In contemporary novels, protagonists may flout laws or expectations to highlight systemic injustices or personal struggles.
- Flouting often serves as a plot device in stories, creating conflict that drives character development and themes.
Translations
Translations of the word "flout" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desrespeitar
🇮🇳 उपेक्षा करना
🇩🇪 missachten
🇮🇩 mengabaikan
🇺🇦 ігнорувати
🇵🇱 lekceważyć
🇯🇵 無視する
🇫🇷 mépriser
🇪🇸 despreciar
🇹🇷 saygısızlık etmek
🇰🇷 무시하다
🇸🇦 تجاهل
🇨🇿 ignorovat
🇸🇰 ignorovať
🇨🇳 无视
🇸🇮 zaničevati
🇮🇸 fyrirgefa
🇰🇿 ескерту
🇬🇪 გაუგონარება
🇦🇿 qəflətən saymamaq
🇲🇽 despreciar