What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
brandish
Example
The knight brandished his sword, intimidating his opponents. [brandished: past tense verb]
Example
She brandished the trophy proudly, showing off her achievement. [brandishing: gerund or present participle]
flourish
Example
The dancer flourished her arms gracefully, captivating the audience. [flourished: past tense verb]
Example
The business has been flourishing, experiencing significant growth in the past year. [flourishing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flourish is more commonly used than brandish in everyday language. Flourish has a broader range of meanings and can be applied to various contexts, such as personal growth, artistic expression, or business success. On the other hand, brandish is less common and is primarily used in specific situations involving weapons or displays of dominance.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between brandish and flourish?
Both brandish and flourish can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, brandish may be perceived as more intense or aggressive, making it more suitable for informal or dramatic situations. Flourish, on the other hand, has a more positive and elegant connotation, allowing it to be used in a wider range of formality levels.
