1
Core quality
Not showing the seriousness, respect, or thoughtful consideration that a subject deserves.
Example
Her flippant remark offended families affected by the disaster.
flippant
/ˈflɪpənt/ · FLIP-untadjective
Not showing the seriousness, respect, or thoughtful consideration that a subject deserves.
Use flippant to express this relationship precisely: not showing the seriousness, respect, or thoughtful consideration that a subject deserves.
What flippant Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
The article's flippant tone weakens its treatment of a serious issue.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
He sounded relaxed without being flippant.
Use flippant Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Her flippant remark offended families affected by the disaster.
The article's flippant tone weakens its treatment of a serious issue.
He sounded relaxed without being flippant.
Precision Matters
Flippant overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
flippant
vs.Means not showing the seriousness, respect, or thoughtful consideration that a subject deserves.
offhand
Means casual, unprepared, or made without careful prior thought.
flippant
vs.Means not showing the seriousness, respect, or thoughtful consideration that a subject deserves.
callous
Means showing cruel or insensitive disregard for other people's feelings or suffering.
flippant
vs.Means not showing the seriousness, respect, or thoughtful consideration that a subject deserves.
earnest
Means showing sincere, serious, and intense conviction or effort.
flippant
vs.Means not showing the seriousness, respect, or thoughtful consideration that a subject deserves.
scrupulous
Means extremely careful about details, accuracy, or ethical correctness.
Test flippant in Context
The joke treats a serious issue with insufficient respect.
1
The spokesperson's ___ joke seemed inappropriate during a discussion of public safety.