Blast From the Past:: Flout vs Flaunt

[http://users.livejournal.com/traycer_/]

It's time for another Blast From the Past and this time we have a refresher look at the difference between flout and flaunt.


In a way, it's difficult to differentiate between the two because according to some dictionaries, when the word flaunt is used as a verb with an object, it can mean, "to ignore or treat with disdain" just as flout is described. However, flaunt is also described as "parading oneself conspicuously," which sets itself apart from flout and is the most common meaning of the word, at least it is according to the Usage Note from Dictionary.com:

The use of FLAUNT to mean “to ignore or treat with disdain” (He flaunts community standards with his behavior ) is strongly objected to by many usage guides, which insist that only FLOUT can properly express this meaning.

To help sort things out, here's a breakdown of the two words and how they are used:

According to Dictionary.com, flout means "to treat with disdain, scorn, or contempt; scoff at or mock."

"How dare you speak, to me, you filthy mudblood," Malfoy said with a snarl. Hermione turned her back on him in a deliberate attempt to flout his opinions.

Flaunt, on the other hand means "to parade or display oneself conspicuously, defiantly, or boldly," or "to wave conspicuously in the air."

"That's just Vala flaunting her wares," Daniel said with a suppressed sigh. He tried not to look at the vast expanse of skin as he added, "You get used to it."

The biggest challenge was getting past the Jaffa, who flaunted his position as a leader by shouting demands to the others.

To make things easier for us, remember to use flaunt when someone is showing off, and flout when someone is being scornful.

Comments

[eglantine-br.livejournal.com]

My kitten, Lyra, does both. (Flout and Flaunt.)