Basic Details
Word: Flippant
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Treating serious issues with disrespect or a lack of seriousness.
Synonyms: Disrespectful, glib, frivolous
Antonyms: Serious, respectful, earnest
Idioms and Phrases
- Flippant remark: A light-hearted or disrespectful comment about something serious. Example: "His flippant remark about the exam made everyone uneasy."
- Take something lightly: To not treat a situation seriously. Example: "You shouldn't take the presentation lightly; it's important for your grade."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The teacher was annoyed by his flippant answer during the serious discussion about school rules.
Example 2: Her flippant attitude at the formal meeting was not appreciated by the managers.
Example 3: It is important to avoid flippant responses when discussing sensitive topics.
Fun Fact
The word "flippant" comes from the early 19th century, derived from the verb "flip," which means to toss something lightly. Its original sense referred to being carefree or casual, but it evolved to suggest a lack of seriousness in discussions.
Famous Quote
"Flippancy is the superficiality of the wise." Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "flippant" mean?
a) Treating serious issues with disrespect
b) Being overly serious
c) Taking everything lightly
d) Loving humour
Answer: a) Treating serious issues with disrespect
2. Which of these is a synonym of "flippant"?
a) Respectful
b) Disrespectful
c) Thoughtful
d) Serious
Answer: b) Disrespectful
3. What is an antonym of "flippant"?
a) Glib
b) Frivolous
c) Serious
d) Light-hearted
Answer: c) Serious
4. Which sentence uses "flippant" correctly?
a) His flippant attitude showed he didn't care about the meeting.
b) She was flippant when she completed her homework.
c) The flippant bird sang beautifully in the morning.
d) They flippant finished the race easily.
Answer: a) His flippant attitude showed he didn't care about the meeting.
5. Which idiom relates to "flippant"?
a) Take something seriously
b) Jumping for joy
c) Flippant remark
d) A penny for your thoughts
Answer: c) Flippant remark
