OSTENTATIOUSLY

Definition of OSTENTATIOUSLY

OSTENTATIOUSLY Adverb

Ostentatiously is an adverb that describes actions or behaviors performed in a manner that is intended to attract attention, admiration, or envy. It is derived from the adjective ostentatious, which means characterized by vulgar or pretentious display meant to impress others. When something is done ostentatiously, it is executed with an excessive or exaggerated showiness, often to make a conspicuous impact.

Exaggerated Display: Ostentatiously often implies an exaggerated or showy display meant to attract attention. For example, wearing extravagant jewelry or driving a luxury car in a manner meant to be noticed can be described as acting ostentatiously. The term suggests that the actions are not merely about personal preference but are deliberately designed to make an impression on others.

Social Context: In social contexts, ostentatiously can describe behaviors or manners that aim to impress or boast about one’s wealth, status, or achievements. For instance, hosting a lavish party with the intent of showcasing one’s affluence or success can be seen as doing so ostentatiously. This behavior often reflects a desire for social validation or recognition.

Contrast with Modesty: The adverb ostentatiously is often contrasted with modest or understated behavior. While modest actions aim to avoid drawing attention or to present oneself in a simple, humble manner, ostentatiously implies a deliberate effort to stand out or be conspicuous. For instance, someone who decorates their home with flamboyant furnishings may be doing so ostentatiously, in contrast to someone who opts for a more subtle, understated decor.

Public and Private Settings: In public settings, ostentatiously can describe actions that are visible to a wide audience, such as elaborate public displays or grand gestures intended for public recognition. In private settings, it may refer to behavior intended to impress specific individuals or groups, such as showing off expensive gifts in front of friends or family.

Critique and Perception: The term ostentatiously often carries a negative connotation, implying that the display is excessive or lacking in genuine taste. It can suggest that the behavior is superficial or insincere, aimed more at garnering attention than at providing genuine value or meaning. For example, someone who flaunts their wealth ostentatiously may be perceived as trying too hard to impress others, rather than simply enjoying their possessions.

Literary and Cultural Use: In literature and cultural discussions, ostentatiously is used to describe characters or behaviors that are excessively showy or extravagant. It is often employed to critique or highlight the superficiality of certain social practices or attitudes. For instance, in classic literature, characters who display their wealth ostentatiously might be portrayed as socially ambitious or lacking in deeper qualities.

In conclusion, ostentatiously describes actions or behaviors performed with the intent to attract attention, admiration, or envy through exaggerated or showy displays. Whether in social, public, or private contexts, ostentatiously conveys a sense of deliberate conspicuousness, often with a connotation of superficiality or lack of genuine modesty. Understanding the use of ostentatiously helps in recognizing when actions are intended to impress or stand out, and in distinguishing such behavior from more modest or genuine expressions.

TIGHTLY

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CONFIDENTIALLY

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OSTENTATIOUSLY

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CHIEFLY

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Examples of OSTENTATIOUSLY in a sentence

• He displayed his new car ostentatiously, hoping to impress his friends.
• The mansion was ostentatiously decorated with gold accents and extravagant furnishings.
• She dressed ostentatiously for the party, wearing a sparkling gown that drew all eyes.
• The CEO spoke ostentatiously about the company’s profits during the press conference.
• They celebrated their anniversary ostentatiously, hosting a lavish party with a guest list of celebrities.
• His behavior was ostentatiously flashy, making it clear he wanted to be the center of attention.
• The rich businessman ostentatiously flaunted his wealth through expensive accessories and extravagant lifestyle.
• The newly renovated office was ostentatiously modern, with high-tech gadgets and sleek design elements.

Origin of OSTENTATIOUSLY

The word ostentatiously has its origins in Latin, passing through Old French before entering English, and it describes an action done in a showy or extravagant manner.

• Latin:
  • Ostentatio (display, show)
  • The Latin word ostentatio comes from ostentare (to display or show off), which is derived from ostendere (to show). Ostentatio referred to the act of showing off or displaying something.
• Old French:
  • Ostentatif (showy, extravagant)
  • In Old French, ostentatif carried forward the Latin sense of being showy or extravagant, relating to actions or displays intended to attract attention.
• Middle English:
  • Ostentatiously (in a showy or pretentious manner)
  • By Middle English, ostentatiously was used to describe actions done in a showy or pretentious manner, reflecting the sense from Old French and Latin.
• Modern English:
  • Ostentatiously (in a manner intended to attract attention)
  • In Modern English, ostentatiously describes actions performed in a way that is intended to attract notice or admiration, maintaining its historical roots.

The term ostentatiously has preserved its core meaning of being showy or extravagant from its Latin origin in ostentatio, through Old French and Middle English, to its current use in English, where it describes actions done in a conspicuous or pretentious manner.

TRANSPORTATION

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COMPREHENSIBLE

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INDIVISIBILITY

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ANTHROPOLOGIST

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