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fanfaronade

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˌfæn.fəˈrɑː.neɪd//

KK: /fænfəˈrɑːneɪd/

noun
Definition

A showy display or boastful behavior that is often exaggerated and lacks real substance.


Example

His speech was filled with fanfaronade, impressing no one with its empty promises.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear John bragging about his new car?
Sloth B
Yeah, it felt like a total fanfaronade to me.
Sloth A
I know, right? It's like he just wants everyone to be impressed.
Sloth B
Exactly! Sometimes it’s better to be humble instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
boast
bluster
brag
Antonyms
humility
modesty
reticence
Root Explanation

Fanfaronade → It originates from the French word 'fanfaron' (meaning braggart or boaster) combined with the suffix '-ade' (indicating an action or process). The word 'fanfaronade' refers to the act of boasting or bragging, often in a showy or ostentatious manner.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'braggart' ('fanfaron') showing off in a grand way ('-ade'), which helps you remember that 'fanfaronade' means the act of boasting.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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