What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vain
Example
She spent hours in front of the mirror, admiring her reflection. [vain: adjective]
Example
It's vain to try to change someone's opinion when they are not open to it. [vain: adjective]
Example
His efforts to impress his boss were in vain, as he was fired anyway. [in vain: adverb phrase]
arrogant
Example
He was so arrogant that he refused to take advice from anyone else. [arrogant: adjective]
Example
Her tone was arrogant and dismissive, making me feel small. [arrogant: adjective]
Example
The CEO's arrogant attitude towards his employees created a toxic work environment. [arrogant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Arrogant is more commonly used than vain in everyday language. Arrogant is a stronger and more specific word, while vain is less common and can have a more lighthearted connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between vain and arrogant?
Both vain and arrogant are negative words that are typically used in informal contexts. However, arrogant can also be used in formal contexts to describe behavior that is unprofessional or inappropriate.
