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Ostentatious vs Pretentious - What's the difference?

ostentatious | pretentious |

Pretentious is a synonym of ostentatious.



As adjectives the difference between ostentatious and pretentious

is that ostentatious is of ostentation while pretentious is marked by an unwarranted claim to importance or distinction.

ostentatious

English

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • Of ostentation.
  • Intended to attract notice.
  • Of tawdry display; kitsch.
    • Synonyms
    * (tawdry)

    Derived terms

    * ostensible * ostensive

    References

    * * *

    pretentious

    English

    Alternative forms

    *

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Marked by an unwarranted claim to importance or distinction.
    • Their song titles are pretentious in the context of their basic lyrics.
  • Ostentatious; intended to impress others.
    • Her dress was obviously more pretentious than comfortable.

    Synonyms

    * poseur * See also

    Antonyms

    * unpretentious

    Derived terms

    * pretentiously * pretentiousness

    Related terms

    * pretend * pretender * pretense * pretension

    References

    * * *