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 Clark's Indiana Fever defeated Reese's Chicago Sky 93-58, and Clark was called for a flagrant foul after a defensive play against Reese. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 15 Aug. 2025 The legal violations have been larger and more flagrant this year. David Frum, The Atlantic, 14 Aug. 2025 She was called for a flagrant foul on Kayla Thornton when the LSU product whacked the Valkyries forward in the face whilst chasing a loose ball. Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 28 June 2025 Carlon says the incident highlights just how far people will go to get a good photo, as well as their flagrant lack of accountability. Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for flagrant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flagrant
Adjective
  • Other derision of Lilith Fair artists was more blatant.
    Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 12 Sep. 2025
  • But Moss was blatant — quite blatant — about owning a bad day, and went about his offseason with a purpose.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • This education gap in preparing employees to use AI and other new technologies effectively is a glaring, industry-wide need.
    Malana VanTyler, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The Los Angeles Lakers have dedicated their offseason to addressing some of the glaring deficiencies that cut last season's playoff run short and locking down superstar Luka Doncic long term.
    Gabe Smallson, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • And a soft implant can be the best option to avoid an obvious edge.
    Megan McIntyre, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
  • That’s because your liver won’t give you obvious clues that say there’s a MASH up going there.
    Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Flagrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flagrant. Accessed 18 Sep. 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!