Flout vs Flaunt
flout
to defy/disregard
flaunt
to show off
How to tell them apart
flOUT = you throw the rules OUT (defy them). flAUNT = you show off what you WANT everyone to see (AUNT flaunting her jewels).
Test yourself
Which word fits from context? Pick one, then reveal the answer. This is exactly how the GRE tests these pairs.
Question 1
Determined to the newly imposed regulations, the drivers deliberately ignored the posted limits and parked wherever they pleased.
Choose: flout or flaunt
Show answer
Answer: flout
"deliberately ignored" the limits forces flout (defy/disregard); flaunt (show off) does not fit defying rules.
Question 2
Eager to his newfound wealth, the parvenu wore three gold watches and drove an ostentatious car through the modest neighborhood.
Choose: flout or flaunt
Show answer
Answer: flaunt
"ostentatious" display of gold watches and a flashy car forces flaunt (show off); flout does not fit.
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