esclandre
Definition
Noun:
A public scandal or uproar: "esclandre" refers to a noisy, disruptive, or scandalous event that attracts public attention and causes a commotion. It often implies an incident that is deliberately dramatic or provocative.
A scene of noisy quarreling: It can also denote a heated, public argument or altercation that draws spectators and creates a disturbance.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The politician's sudden resignation caused a major esclandre in the press. (A public scandal that generated widespread media coverage.)
- They made an esclandre at the restaurant by shouting at the waiter. (A noisy, disruptive quarrel in a public place.)
Advanced Usage
"to cause an esclandre": to deliberately create a scandal or public disturbance.
- She threatened to cause an esclandre if her demands were not met. (She warned she would stir up a public scandal.)
"to avoid an esclandre": to prevent a scandal or public embarrassment.
- The family tried to avoid an esclandre by settling the dispute privately. (They attempted to keep the matter out of the public eye.)
Variants and Related Words
- Esclandre is a direct borrowing from French, with no common English variants. It is rarely used in everyday English but appears in literary or journalistic contexts.
Synonyms
- Scandal: a public event causing outrage or disgrace.
- Uproar: a loud, confused noise or commotion.
- Fracas: a noisy, disorderly quarrel or fight.
- Commotion: a state of confused and noisy disturbance.
Related Idioms
"Make a scene": to behave dramatically in public, causing a disturbance.
- He made a scene at the party when he accused her of lying. (He created a public spectacle, similar to an esclandre.)
"Cause a stir": to provoke excitement or controversy.
- The artist's new exhibition caused a stir in the art world. (It generated public attention and debate.)