flippant

/flippant/

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Word: Flippant

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: The word "flippant" describes a way of speaking or behaving that is disrespectful or not serious, especially when you should be serious. It shows a lack of respect or care about something important.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "flippant" to describe a person's attitude, comments, or behavior.
• It is often used in contexts where seriousness is expected, such as in formal situations or when discussing sensitive topics.

Example Sentences:

1. Casual Context: "When asked about his failing grade, he gave a flippant reply, saying it didn’t really matter."
2. Serious Context: "Her flippant attitude during the funeral upset many people who were grieving."

Advanced Usage:

• In formal writing or discussions, you might use "flippant" to critique someone’s lack of seriousness in a debate or an important conversation. For example, "The politician's flippant remarks about the crisis showed he was not taking the issue seriously."

Word Variants:

• Flippantly (adverb): This describes the manner in which someone behaves or speaks in a flippant way.
  • Example: "She spoke flippantly about her job loss, which shocked her friends."
• Flippancy (noun): This refers to the quality of being flippant.
  • Example: "His flippancy in the meeting was inappropriate given the seriousness of the topic."

Different Meanings:

• While "flippant" usually carries a negative connotation of disrespect, it can also imply a light-heartedness that, in some contexts, might be seen as refreshing. However, in most cases, it is better to consider it negative.

Synonyms:

• Disrespectful
• Glib
• Frivolous
• Carefree
• Lacking seriousness

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Not take something seriously": This phrase can describe a flippant attitude.
  • Example: "He didn’t take the project seriously, which annoyed his team."
• "Joke around": This can sometimes convey a flippant attitude if done inappropriately.
  • Example: "They were joking around during the serious presentation, which was quite flippant."

Summary:

"Flippant" is used to describe someone who is not taking something seriously when they should be. It’s often viewed negatively and can make people feel that their concerns are not being respected.

Academic

Adjective

1. showing inappropriate levity

Synonyms

• light-minded