Definition of flagrantnext

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 Moral rectitude, in some left-wing corners of the commentariat, is out; flagrant disregard of the social contract is in. Will Gottsegen, The Atlantic, 24 Apr. 2026 Ball ended up being fined $60,000 for his actions during the game ($35,000 for the foul, $25,000 for postgame profanity on TV) and assessed a flagrant foul. Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 16 Apr. 2026 That should’ve been a flagrant foul. Dave Hyde, Sun Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026 Kings coach Doug Christie was pleased with the way his young players responded in an intense and physical game with three technical fouls, two flagrant fouls and one ejection. Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flagrant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flagrant
Adjective
  • Given the movie’s blatant satire of recent horror movies, it’s expected to do well beyond just English-speaking including Germany and Latin America.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 3 June 2026
  • Congress, having discovered some spine, should revolt at this blatant self-dealing as well.
    Austin Elias-de Jesus, New Yorker, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • Of course, plenty can happen between now and then, but those have been the most glaring weaknesses for a team that is second to the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League East.
    Brendan Kuty, New York Times, 28 May 2026
  • With the United States men’s national team’s 26-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup confirmed on Tuesday afternoon at Pier 17 in Manhattan, midfielder Diego Luna’s absence from Mauricio Pochettino’s squad is the most glaring.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 26 May 2026
Adjective
  • To further prevent obvious staining, choose darker flooring that won't show mud and dirt as easily.
    Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 June 2026
  • Black is an obvious choice, but purple, red, pink, navy, or even bolder choices like butter yellow, or orange can also work.
    Lauren Jones, The Spruce, 6 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flagrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flagrant. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.

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