What is the difference between ostentate and flaunt?

Definitions

ostentate

- Describing a showy display of wealth or luxury.

- Referring to an exhibition of one's possessions or status in a boastful or pretentious manner.

- Talking about a deliberate attempt to impress or intimidate others with one's wealth or status.

flaunt

- Referring to a deliberate display of one's possessions or achievements in a proud or arrogant manner.

- Describing a showy or conspicuous display of one's physical attributes or qualities.

- Talking about a behavior that seeks attention and admiration from others.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words involve showing off or displaying something.
• 2. Both words can be used to describe behavior that seeks attention or admiration from others.
• 3. Both words can have negative connotations when used excessively or inappropriately.

What is the difference?

• 1. Intent: Ostentate implies a deliberate attempt to impress or intimidate others with one's wealth or status, while flaunt suggests a desire to show off or draw attention to oneself.
• 2. Focus: Ostentate emphasizes the display of material possessions or status symbols, while flaunt can refer to the display of physical attributes or personal qualities.
• 3. Connotation: Ostentate is often associated with a negative connotation of being showy or pretentious, while flaunt can have a more neutral or positive connotation of being confident or proud.
• 4. Usage: Ostentate is less commonly used than flaunt in everyday language and is more likely to be used in formal or literary contexts.

📌

Remember this!

Ostentate and flaunt are synonyms that both describe behavior that involves showing off or displaying something. However, the difference between the two words lies in their intent, focus, and connotation. Ostentate implies a deliberate attempt to impress or intimidate others with one's wealth or status, while flaunt suggests a desire to show off or draw attention to oneself. Additionally, ostentate emphasizes the display of material possessions or status symbols, while flaunt can refer to the display of physical attributes or personal qualities.