What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
arrivistes
Example
The young entrepreneur quickly became one of the most successful arrivistes in the tech industry. [arrivistes: noun]
Example
She was often criticized for her arrogant behavior, typical of arrivistes trying to make their mark. [arrivistes: adjective]
parvenu
Example
Despite his newfound wealth, he was still seen as a parvenu by the old-money families in town. [parvenu: noun]
Example
Her flashy attire and ostentatious behavior only reinforced the perception that she was a parvenu. [parvenu: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Parvenu is less commonly used than arrivistes in everyday language. Arrivistes is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, while parvenu is more specific and often used in discussions about social class or cultural capital.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between arrivistes and parvenu?
Both arrivistes and parvenu are relatively formal words, but arrivistes can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while parvenu is more commonly used in formal or academic contexts.
