Definition

Adverb: - In a showy, pretentious, or conspicuous manner designed to attract notice or impress others: The word describes an action performed with excessive display, flashiness, or a deliberate intent to be seen and admired.

Usage

The adverb "ostentatiously" modifies a verb to describe how an action is performed. It indicates that the action is done in a way that is intentionally flashy, extravagant, or meant to draw attention, often suggesting vanity or a lack of subtlety. - It is typically used in a slightly critical or negative context to imply that the display is excessive and meant for show.

Examples

• Adverb:
  • He ostentatiously checked his expensive watch during the meeting. (He checked his watch in a very obvious and showy manner to draw attention to its cost.)
  • She ostentatiously donated a large sum, ensuring the press was there to cover it. (Her act of donating was performed in a way deliberately designed to gain public recognition.)
  • The reference example: "Mr Khrushchev ostentatiously wooed and embraced Castro at the U.N. general assembly." (His actions of wooing and embracing were performed in an exaggerated, public, and showy manner to make a political point or attract maximum attention.)

Advanced Usage

• Used to highlight ironic or hypocritical behavior: Often points out a disconnect between the showy action and a less impressive reality.
  • He ostentatiously preached about simplicity while living in a mansion.
• In literary or descriptive writing: Used to build character by showing their pretentious or vain nature through their actions.
  • The villain ostentatiously polished his rings while outlining his evil plan.

Variants and Related Words

• Ostentatious (adjective): Characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress.
  • Their wedding was an ostentatious display of wealth.
• Ostentation (noun): Pretentious and vulgar display, especially of wealth and luxury, intended to impress or attract notice.
  • The palace was a monument to sheer ostentation.

Synonyms

• Showily
• Flamboyantly
• Pretentiously
• Flashily
• Conspicuously (though this can be more neutral)

Antonyms

• Modestly
• Unobtrusively
• Discreetly
• Simply

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To make a (great) show of (doing something): To do something in a very obvious or exaggerated way so people will notice. This phrase is a close conceptual synonym for acting "ostentatiously."
  • He made a great show of helping, but actually did very little.

Adverb

1. with ostentation; in an ostentatious manner
   • Mr Khrushchev ostentatiously wooed and embraced Castro at the U.N. general assembly