Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective flagrant differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of flagrant are glaring, gross, and rank. While all these words mean "conspicuously bad or objectionable," flagrant applies usually to offenses or errors so bad that they can neither escape notice nor be condoned.

flagrant abuse of the office of president

In what contexts can glaring take the place of flagrant?

The synonyms glaring and flagrant are sometimes interchangeable, but glaring implies painful or damaging obtrusiveness of something that is conspicuously wrong, faulty, or improper.

glaring errors

Where would gross be a reasonable alternative to flagrant?

The words gross and flagrant can be used in similar contexts, but gross implies the exceeding of reasonable or excusable limits.

gross carelessness

When could rank be used to replace flagrant?

The words rank and flagrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rank applies to what is openly and extremely objectionable and utterly condemned.

rank heresy

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of flagrant Simpson seemed distressed by the fall and went to check on his opponent, before later being called for a flagrant 2 foul, leading to an automatic ejection. George Ramsay, CNN Money, 9 Apr. 2025 Upon referee review, the foul by KJ Simpson was upgraded to a flagrant penalty 2 and he was ejected from the game. Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 9 Apr. 2025 This is a flagrant violation of international norms and laws, particularly international humanitarian law. Kevin Sabet, Newsweek, 24 Mar. 2025 But the disparity on offense remains flagrant. Bill Speros, Boston Herald, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flagrant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flagrant
Adjective
  • One blatant obstacle: enterprise leaders are often cautious in welcoming technology.
    Dr. Sai Balasubramanian, M.D., Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025
  • What’s next: After the blatant inconsistencies in the Israeli account were revealed, the military seemed to move more quickly than usual to address the issue.
    Natasha Frost, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Speed and a legitimate vertical threat were arguably the two most glaring weaknesses in the Cowboys receiver room last season.
    MSNBC Newsweek, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Apr. 2025
  • Kendrick Lamar Performs Drake Diss Track for First Time, Hits Stage with Dr. Dre: 'A Cultural Moment' The owl imagery at the end was perhaps the most glaring reference fans caught onto.
    Marina Watts, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Entertainment Fans of the show on social media seem to be missing a lot of crucial character development, and there’s an obvious explanation why.
    Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 10 Apr. 2025
  • In its wildest moments, Coogler’s film seems like a collision of Lovecraft Country with True Blood, though more obvious comparisons will likely be drawn to From Dusk Till Dawn.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 10 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flagrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flagrant. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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