ostentation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
ostentation Word Meanings
- excessive display of wealth or extravagance
- showy display meant to impress others
- a way of showing off one's possessions or status
ostentation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
ostentation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɒstənˈteɪʃən/
US
/ˌɑːstənˈteɪʃən/
ostentation Word Etymology
Root: 'ostentare' (to exhibit) + suffix '-tion'. Historical origin: from Latin 'ostentatio' through Old French into English. Memory image: Imagine a peacock spreading its feathers wide, strutting and showing off its colorful plumage to attract attention.
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
Ostentation refers to an excessive, showy display of wealth, status, or possessions intended to attract attention or admiration. It often carries a negative tone, implying vanity rather than taste or achievement. In everyday use, you might criticize ostentation when someone flaunts luxury items at a party or uses wealth to impress others rather than to sustain genuine generosity or skill. The word frequently collocates with phrases like ostentatious display, ostentation of wealth, or ostentation of power. For learners, remember that ostentation implies motive (attention-seeking) more than simply being flashy and that the term is usually negative rather than neutral.
Usage Reminders
- notice the negative tone
- collocate with wealth or power
- not neutral aesthetics
- prefer noun form with 'of' phrases
- avoid positive contexts
- watch for synonyms like showiness
Common Misconceptions
- It only describes wealth, not behavior
- It is a positive word for tasteful display
- Ostentation and ostentatious are interchangeable in all contexts
- It cannot describe power displays
- It is a formal synonym of showiness
Thinking Differences
English speakers often perceive ostentation as a moral judgment about vanity and taste. Learners may assume it only describes wealth, forgetting contexts of power or status displays.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun form and common collocations (of wealth, of power).
- Differentiate from ostentatious (adj) and showiness (n).
- Note negative usage; avoid neutral or positive contexts.
- Pair with verbs like display; avoid verbs that imply pride.
- Watch for polite vs critical tone in different registers.
- Use in critique contexts, not praise.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'ostentation'?
A.An intense feeling of joy
B.A type of luxury vehicle
C.The act of showing off wealth or knowledge
D.A method of communication
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'ostentation' correctly?
A.The dog exhibited ostentation by barking loudly.
B.She showed ostentation by quietly donating to charity.
C.His ostentation about his new phone was off-putting.
D.Her ostentation was evident when she wore mismatched socks.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'ostentation'?
A.Showiness
B.Subtlety
C.Modesty
D.Simplicity
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'ostentation'?
A.Display
B.Bravado
C.Austerity
D.Elaboration
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might display ostentation?
A.A student studying hard for an exam.
B.Someone flaunting their expensive jewelry at a party.
C.A person volunteering at a local shelter.
D.An athlete practicing every day to improve their skills.
Related Listening
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