ostentatious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
ostentatious Word Meanings
- showy and vulgar display designed to impress others
- characterized by pretentious or showy display
- excessively elaborate or ornate
ostentatious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
ostentatious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɒstənˈteɪʃəs/
US
/ˌɑːstənˈteɪʃəs/
ostentatious Word Etymology
ostentatious = ostentare (Latin) = to display + -ious (suffix) = characterized by. Originated from Latin, through Old French, to English. Imagine someone wearing a lavish suit try to attract attention, strutting around like a peacock in a crowded room.
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
Ostentatious describes a showy, vulgar display intended to impress others. It carries a negative tone, implying excess, pretension, or conspicuous consumption rather than genuine taste. You might hear it about a lavish party, an extravagant outfit, or a public display of wealth or status meant to attract attention. The term signals that the display is primarily about signaling status or provoking envy, not serving a function well. In contemporary usage, it often pairs with phrases like ostentatious wealth or ostentatious behavior.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the tone is negative; use with caution. Collocate with displays, behavior, or wealth, not people alone. Distinguish from showy or gaudy by noting intention. Often used with phrases like ostentatious display or ostentatious wealth. It can describe objects and actions, not just individuals. Keep comparisons crisp and avoid overusing in formal writing.
Common Misconceptions
- It means simply luxurious or expensive; it always has a negative shade.
- It only describes people, not things or actions.
- It is the same as gaudy or flashy with no distinct nuance.
- It can be used positively in praising fashion or design.
- It is interchangeable with pretentious in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often reserve ostentatious for negative judgments about displays of wealth or status; it’s less common for neutral praise and more used to critique conspicuous consumption.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun form ostentation to discuss the quality of display.
- Pair with collocations like ostentatious display, ostentatious wealth, ostentatious gesture.
- Note that tone is negative; avoid praising contexts.
- Distinguish ostentatious from showy and gaudy by intent.
- Practice with both people and things that display wealth or status.
- Use in formal writing to critique behavior or design.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'ostentatious'?
A.Simple
B.Fast
C.Quiet
D.Showy
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'ostentatious' used correctly?
A.He was modest and shy, never showing off his wealth.
B.The car zoomed by at an ostentatious speed.
C.She always wore ostentatious jewelry to every event.
D.The teacher was ostentatious in explaining the difficult concepts.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'ostentatious'?
A.Modest
B.Reserved
C.Extravagant
D.Simple
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'ostentatious'?
A.Subtle
B.Plain
C.Flashy
D.Elegant
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'ostentatious'?
A.Talking about a simple and humble act of kindness
B.Referring to a peaceful and unassuming protest
C.Describing someone who loves to show off their new gadgets
D.Describing a shy and introverted person
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App