What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ostentatious
Example
The ostentatious mansion was filled with expensive artwork and furniture. [ostentatious: adjective]
Example
She arrived at the party in an ostentatious dress covered in sequins. [ostentatiously: adverb]
pretentious
Example
He was always making pretentious comments about his knowledge of art. [pretentious: adjective]
Example
The restaurant's menu was filled with pretentious descriptions of the food. [pretentiously: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pretentious is more commonly used than ostentatious in everyday language. Pretentious is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ostentatious is less common and refers specifically to displays of wealth or luxury.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between ostentatious and pretentious?
Both ostentatious and pretentious are associated with a negative connotation and are typically used in informal contexts. However, pretentious can also be used in formal settings to criticize someone for being insincere or fake.
