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 Draymond Green is used to getting whistled for flagrant fouls. Chantz Martin, Fox News, 17 Nov. 2024 In the Fever's last game against the rival Chicago Sky weeks ago, Chicago's Diamond DeShields sent Clark flying across the floor for a foul that was later upgraded to a flagrant foul. Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 20 Sep. 2024 Some believe that this is an outrageous and flagrant form of anthropomorphizing AI. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 16 Aug. 2024 But even this flagrant corporate cheerleading cannot sully the sheer moment-to-moment joy of playing Astro Bot. Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 5 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for flagrant 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flagrant
Adjective
  • In this case, we were inspired by the idea of a slightly spooky fairy-tale woodland: Think dark colors (winey maroons, deep browns, and yes, a classic black), edgy shapes, and blatant prints that read more gothic cool than outdated grandma.
    Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 26 Jan. 2025
  • One moment this season (still to come) that left Quad particularly stunned was Dr. G’s blatant disrespect in front of her partner, King.
    Shelby Stewart, Essence, 24 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Perhaps the most glaring issue with this ceasefire agreement is the exclusion of Palestinians from the negotiation process.
    Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025
  • The federal tax credit for electric vehicle purchases has far outlived its purpose and now stands as a glaring example of government overreach and economic inequity.
    Veronique de Rugy, The Mercury News, 14 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • But just as the rise of AI will be obvious in the ads, the challenges facing the entertainment business will also be reflected.
    Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 29 Jan. 2025
  • Viewing it now, the movie’s influence and prescience are more obvious than ever.
    Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 28 Jan. 2025

Podcast

Thesaurus Entries Near flagrant

Cite this Entry

“Flagrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flagrant. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on flagrant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!