Flouting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flouting

[flaสŠtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

law, rules

Flouting refers to the act of openly disregarding or defying established rules, laws, or conventions. It implies a brazen attitude towards authority or accepted norms, often indicating a deliberate choice to break them. This term is frequently used in legal and social contexts, highlighting actions that show contempt for guidelines that are meant to be followed.

Synonyms

contravene, defy, disregard, ignore, scorn.

Examples of usage

  • The protestors were flouting the cityโ€™s regulations by gathering in large groups.
  • He was found flouting the traffic laws by speeding and ignoring stop signs.
  • Flouting the dress code at work may lead to disciplinary action.
  • The company was accused of flouting environmental regulations.
  • They continued flouting social distancing guidelines despite the pandemic.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, flouting regulations can lead to serious consequences, including fines or penalties.
  • Many historical figures are known for flouting unjust laws as a form of protest, influencing social change.
  • Flouting can often lead to public outcry, shaping public opinion and legal reforms.

Pop Culture

  • Many modern movies feature characters who flout societal norms, often becoming heroes to audiences.
  • Songs often celebrate the idea of flouting authority, resonating with themes of rebellion and freedom.
  • Social media influencers sometimes flout advertising rules, raising debates about ethics in the digital age.

Psychology

  • Research shows that individuals who flout rules may often feel they have a strong sense of autonomy.
  • Flouting can be a response to perceived injustice, where individuals seek to challenge unfair systems.
  • Group dynamics play a role, as people may feel emboldened to flout norms if they see others doing it.

Literature

  • Classic literature often features protagonists who flout societal expectations, driving central conflicts.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters frequently flout social hierarchies, highlighting the tension of their times.
  • Many contemporary authors explore themes of rebellion through characters who flout conventions or authority.

Origin of 'flouting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'flouten', meaning to play the fool or mock someone.
  • Its roots trace back to the Old Norse word 'flรบta', which means to blow or to make a sound.
  • Initially, it conveyed more of a sense of scorn, showing how playful mockery was involved.

The term flout originates from the late Middle English word 'flouten', which means to play the fool or to mock. Its roots can be traced back to Old Norse 'flรบta', which means to blow, making a connection to the idea of blowing off or ignoring something. In its current usage, flout has become synonymous with openly disregarding laws or rules. The use of flout in the context of law and social norms has gained prominence, especially in discussions surrounding civil disobedience and social movements, where individuals and groups intentionally choose to defy established regulations to illustrate a point or protest perceived injustices.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,950 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.