Ostentatiously: meaning, definitions and examples

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ostentatiously

 

[ ˌɒs.tenˈteɪ.ʃəs.li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a showy or exaggerated manner

If someone behaves ostentatiously, they show off their wealth or knowledge in a way that is intended to impress others. It is often seen as a negative trait, as it can come across as insincere or pretentious.

Synonyms

flamboyantly, flashily, grandiosely, showily.

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Word Description / Examples
ostentatiously

This word is used to describe actions or appearances that are done in a very noticeable way to attract attention. It often has a negative connotation, as it suggests showing off or trying too hard to impress others.

  • She entered the room ostentatiously, wearing an extravagant dress that was meant to catch everyone's eye
showily

Refers to an obvious or ostentatious way of doing things, aimed at attracting attention. It can often imply that the display lacks genuine quality.

  • The new sculpture was placed showily in the middle of the square, instantly grabbing the attention of passers-by
flashily

This word indicates a way of dressing or behaving that is intended to attract attention, often with excessive and sometimes tasteless display. It typically suggests a lack of subtlety.

  • He drove a flashily decorated sports car that drew everyone's attention on the street
flamboyantly

Suitable for describing a vibrant, bold, and showy manner or appearance. It can be used positively to convey a captivating style or negatively to imply gaudiness.

  • The performer danced flamboyantly, captivating the audience with his colorful costume and energetic moves
grandiosely

Used to describe things that are done in an exaggerated or overly grand way, often beyond what is necessary or realistic. It often carries a sense of pretentiousness.

  • The company announced their expansion plans grandiosely, promising the moon and stars to their investors

Examples of usage

  • She ostentatiously displayed her expensive jewelry at the party.
  • He spoke ostentatiously about his prestigious education, trying to impress everyone.
  • The politician's ostentatious gestures were seen as insincere by the public.

Translations

Translations of the word "ostentatiously" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ostentosamente

🇮🇳 दिखावटी ढंग से

🇩🇪 prahlerisch

🇮🇩 secara mencolok

🇺🇦 демонстративно

🇵🇱 ostentacyjnie

🇯🇵 これ見よがしに

🇫🇷 ostensiblement

🇪🇸 ostentosamente

🇹🇷 gösterişli bir şekilde

🇰🇷 과시적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل متباهٍ

🇨🇿 okázale

🇸🇰 okázalo

🇨🇳 炫耀地

🇸🇮 razkazovalno

🇮🇸 sýndarmælislega

🇰🇿 көрнекті түрде

🇬🇪 პომპეზურად

🇦🇿 göstərişlə

🇲🇽 ostentosamente

Etymology

The word 'ostentatiously' originates from the Latin word 'ostentatio', which means display or show. It has been used in the English language since the 17th century. The concept of ostentation has been present in various cultures throughout history, often associated with showcasing wealth or status. In modern times, ostentatious behavior is often criticized for being superficial or insincere.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,297, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.