flagrant - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
flagrant Word Meanings
- clearly wrong or evil
- conspicuously offensive
- shockingly noticeable
flagrant Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
flagrant Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfleɪ.ɡrənt/
US
/ˈfleɪ.ɡrənt/
flagrant Word Etymology
flagrant = flagrant- (from Latin flagrans meaning 'burning, blazing') + -t (adjective suffix). Originated from Latin to English through Old French. Imagine a burning sign that cannot be ignored, representing clear wrongdoing on display.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Flagrant means something clearly wrong or offensive, often with a strong moral judgment. It describes acts that are so conspicuously improper that they cannot reasonably be ignored. In news, commentary, and law, flagrant violations are highlighted to show clear disregard for rules, safety, or ethics. The word also implies audacity: a deliberate, public display of wrongdoing that invites critique. It is stronger than plain 'blatant' or 'obvious' in tone, because flagrant carries an ethical condemnation. Learners should reserve flagrant for situations where the misconduct is visible, intentional, and morally charged rather than minor or accidental errors.
Usage Reminders
- Use in formal critique, not casual chat. Pair with nouns like violation, misconduct, or breach. Avoid mild contexts; reserve for clearly moral breaches. Check the tone: flagrant implies strong condemnation. Do not confuse with obvious or blatant in everyday praise. Remember it often precedes a noun: flagrant violation, flagrant disregard.
Common Misconceptions
- It only describes crimes or legal issues.
- It means 'very obvious' without any moral judgement.
- It can describe people as flagrant without criticizing their actions.
- It is interchangeable with 'blatant' in all contexts.
- It is casual or informal speech.
Thinking Differences
Flagrant is a moral intensifier in English; it signals disapproval and public wrongdoing. Learners often treat it as simply 'very obvious', which can dull its ethical bite. It tends to pair with nouns like violation, misconduct, or breach and is best saved for serious, attention-grabbing cases.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: flagrant violation, flagrant misconduct, flagrant breach.
- Notice the tone: formal, critical, and moralizing rather than neutral.
- Differentiate from ‘blatant’ by focusing on ethical judgment.
- Use in written contexts to describe public, intentional wrongdoing.
- Pair with nouns that require strong condemnation (violations, injustices).
- Practice with real-world news or legal cases to hear natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'flagrant'?
A.Hidden
B.Obvious
C.Complicated
D.Forgotten
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'flagrant' used correctly?
A.He couldn't find the flagrant book on the shelf.
B.The flagrant colors of the flowers brightened the room.
C.She tried to hide her flagrant mistake.
D.Their kindness was so flagrant that it went unnoticed.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'flagrant'?
A.Moderate
B.Subtle
C.Blatant
D.Trivial
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite of 'flagrant'?
A.Ostentatious
B.Evident
C.Concealed
D.Transparent
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would 'flagrant' be used?
A.A player committing a flagrant foul in a basketball game
B.A chef creating a flagrant dish for a food competition
C.A teacher giving a flagrant test question to challenge the students
D.A business executive making a flagrant decision that everyone agrees with
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