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Effrontery - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Effrontery is shameless boldness or audacity, often implying a disrespectful or offensive disregard for others' feelings or social norms. It suggests acting without shame or embarrassment.

effrontery

/ɪˈfrʌntəri/ /ɪˈfrʌntəri/

Definition:

Shameless boldness or disrespect, often in a way that offends others.

Synonyms:

audacity, impudence, nerve, gall

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

humility, modesty

Common Collocations:

sheer effrontery, display effrontery, have the effrontery

Derivatives:

effronteries (plural), effront (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "effrontery" to describe behavior that is shockingly rude or disrespectful.

Common Phrases:

have the effrontery to, sheer effrontery, brazen effrontery

Etymology:

From French "effronterie," meaning shamelessness, derived from "effronté" (shameless).

Examples:

  • 1. His effrontery stunned everyone when he interrupted the speaker rudely.
  • 2. She had the effrontery to demand a promotion after missing deadlines repeatedly.
  • 3. The politician’s effrontery in denying corruption angered voters.
  • 4. I couldn’t believe his effrontery when he blamed me for his mistake!

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