Everyday · Commonly confused · Law & order
Flout: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Flout verb. To ignore a rule, law or custom openly and without shame.
How to say it
FLOWT/ˈflaʊt/
1 syllable. Forms: flouted.
Flout in a sentence
Drivers flout the speed limit on that road every night.
She flouted convention by wearing trainers to the gala.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- defy
- disregard
- break
- scorn
Opposite:
- obey
- observe
- respect
Usage note
You flout a rule (break it openly) and flaunt your wealth (show it off). 'Flaunting the law' is a very common slip for flouting it.
Don’t confuse with flaunt
flaunt (verb): To show something off proudly so that others are sure to notice.
Where flout comes from
Perhaps from Dutch fluiten, to whistle or hiss at, though the link isn't certain.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
She _____ convention by wearing trainers to the gala.
- apprise
- flout
- proscribe
Show the answer
flout: She flouted convention by wearing trainers to the gala.