Flaunt vs. Flout – Which is Correct?

Flaunt and flout are two distinct verbs often confused due to their similar sounds, but they carry entirely different meanings. Flaunt means to display something ostentatiously, especially to provoke envy or admiration. Flout means to openly disregard a rule, law, or convention with contempt. Both are correct English words, but their proper usage depends entirely on the intended message.

Flaunt or Flout – Which is Correct?

Both “flaunt” and “flout” are correct and valid English verbs, but they describe actions that are nearly opposite in nature. The confusion often arises from their phonetic similarity, making them easy to mix up in speech and writing. To remember the difference, think of it this way: you flaunt something you have (like wealth or skill), while you flout something you defy (like a rule or expectation). A simple “swap test” reveals their distinctness: if you mean to show off, use “flaunt”; if you mean to show contempt for a rule, use “flout.”

Just like ‘flaunt’ and ‘flout,’ other pairs such as forego and forgo frequently cause confusion among writers.

Word	Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Flaunt	Verb	To display ostentatiously; to show off.	She loved to flaunt her new designer handbag.
Flout	Verb	To openly disregard (a rule, law, or convention) with contempt.	He continued to flout the dress code despite repeated warnings.

How to Use Flaunt

The verb “flaunt” is used when someone displays something conspicuously or ostentatiously, often with the intention of showing off, drawing attention, or provoking envy. It implies a certain degree of showiness or even boastfulness. While it can sometimes be neutral, it often carries a slightly negative or critical connotation, suggesting that the display is excessive or inappropriate. It can apply to possessions, achievements, or even physical attributes.

Example 1: The celebrity loved to flaunt her extravagant jewelry on the red carpet.

Example 2: Despite his humble beginnings, he now flaunts his immense wealth at every opportunity.

Example 3: She decided to flaunt her newly acquired linguistic skills during her trip abroad.

What are the different forms of flaunt?

“Flaunt” is a regular verb. Its forms are:

• Base form: flaunt
• Third-person singular present: flaunts
• Present participle: flaunting
• Past tense: flaunted
• Past participle: flaunted

Etymology of the word flaunt

The origin of “flaunt” is somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the 16th century. It might be related to the Middle English word “flaunt” meaning “to strut” or “to show off,” possibly stemming from a Scandinavian root. Another theory suggests a connection to “flout,” though their meanings diverged significantly over time.

How to Use Flout

The verb “flout” means to openly disregard a rule, law, convention, or authority with contempt or defiance. It implies a deliberate and often public act of disrespect or disobedience. Unlike “flaunt,” which is about showing off, “flout” is about showing disdain for established norms or regulations. It almost always carries a negative connotation, indicating a willful violation.

Example 1: Many drivers continue to flout the speed limit, despite the increased police presence.

Example 2: The company was criticized for continually trying to flout environmental regulations.

Example 3: He decided to flout tradition by wearing a bright suit to the formal ceremony.

What are the different forms of flout?

“Flout” is a regular verb. Its forms are:

• Base form: flout
• Third-person singular present: flouts
• Present participle: flouting
• Past tense: flouted
• Past participle: flouted

Etymology of the word flout

“Flout” also appeared in the 16th century, around the same time as “flaunt.” Its origin is thought to be from the Middle Dutch “fluiten,” meaning “to play the flute” or “to jeer, whistle.” This suggests a connection to making scornful noises or gestures, which evolved into the current meaning of showing open contempt or disregard.

Related Concepts

The confusion between “flaunt” and “flout” highlights a common linguistic challenge: near-homophones. These are words that sound similar but have different meanings and spellings. English is rich with such pairs (e.g., “affect” vs. “effect,” “compliment” vs. “complement”), and they frequently lead to errors. Mastering these distinctions requires not just memorizing definitions but also understanding the context and connotation each word carries. In the case of “flaunt” and “flout,” one describes an act of display, while the other describes an act of defiance, making their misuse particularly impactful on the meaning of a sentence.

Examples from Media and Literature

• “There is an old saying, ‘Don’t flaunt your wealth,’ and for good reason—it often breeds resentment.” (General wisdom)
• “In ‘The Great Gatsby,’ Jay Gatsby often flaunts his extravagant parties and possessions to impress Daisy Buchanan.” (Literary analysis)
• “The new policy aims to penalize those who consistently flout traffic laws, not just minor offenders.” (News report)
• “Despite warnings from the authorities, the protestors continued to flout the ban on public gatherings.” (News headline)
• “She had a quiet strength, never feeling the need to flaunt her intelligence or flout conventional wisdom.” (Fictional narrative)

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. The teenager loved to _____ his expensive new sneakers at school.
2. Despite the clear instructions, he decided to _____ the safety regulations.
3. She was careful not to _____ her success in front of her struggling friends.
4. The company’s CEO was accused of trying to _____ tax laws.
5. If you constantly _____ the rules, you will eventually face consequences.

Answer Key

1. flaunt
2. flout
3. flaunt
4. flout
5. flout

Flaunt Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Display	To put something in a prominent place so that it can be seen easily.
Show off	To exhibit one’s abilities or possessions in an ostentatious way.
Parade	To walk or move in a public place in a way that attracts attention.
Brandish	To wave or flourish (something, especially a weapon) as a threat or in anger or excitement. (Can be used for showing off, e.g., “brandish new gadgets.”)

Flout Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Defy	Openly resist or refuse to obey.
Disregard	Pay no attention to; ignore.
Scoff at	Speak to someone or about something in a scornfully derisive or mocking way.
Violate	Break or fail to comply with (a rule or formal agreement).

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Can “flaunt” be used in a positive way?
While “flaunt” often carries a negative connotation of excessive display, it can sometimes be used neutrally or even positively to describe confidently showcasing something admirable, such as an artist flaunting their unique style or an athlete flaunting their strength.

Question 2: Is “flout” always negative?
Yes, “flout” almost exclusively carries a negative connotation. It implies a deliberate and contemptuous disregard for rules or norms, which is generally viewed unfavorably. It suggests defiance and disrespect.

Question 3: What’s a simple mnemonic to remember the difference between “flaunt” and “flout”?
Think of flaunt as showing off your “fancy” things, while flout is like giving a “foul” sign to rules. Another way: you flaunt what you have, you flout what you hate (rules).

Conclusion

The distinction between “flaunt” and “flout” is a classic example of how subtle phonetic differences can lead to significant semantic shifts in English. Remembering that “flaunt” means to display ostentatiously and “flout” means to openly defy is crucial for clear and accurate communication. Misusing these words can dramatically alter the meaning of your message, potentially undermining your credibility or conveying an unintended tone.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, consider the intent. Are you describing someone showing off an asset, or someone showing contempt for a rule? This simple check will help you choose the correct verb and maintain precision in your writing.