What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
boast
Example
He always boasts about his expensive car. [boast: verb]
Example
She couldn't help but boast about her promotion at work. [boasting: gerund or present participle]
vaunt
Example
He likes to vaunt his knowledge of foreign languages. [vaunt: verb]
Example
She often vaunts her wealth and luxurious lifestyle. [vaunting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Boast is more commonly used than vaunt in everyday language. It is a versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Vaunt, on the other hand, is less common and is typically used in more formal or literary settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between boast and vaunt?
While boast can be used in both formal and informal situations, vaunt is considered more formal and may be used in professional or literary contexts. Vaunt carries a stronger connotation of excessive pride or arrogance compared to boast.