Alright, let’s dive into the word “blatant” and explore its meanings, usage, origin, and some tips for remembering it.
Meaning and Usage
Blatant: (adjective)
Pronunciation: /ˈbleɪtnt/
Definitions:
Obvious and offensive: Something done without any attempt to hide it and in a way that shows disrespect.
Example in formal writing: “The politician’s blatant corruption was evident to everyone.”
Example in conversation: “It’s so blatant that he’s lying.”
Blatant disregard for:
Example: “The prosecutors said the police have shown a blatant disregard for their duties.”
Translation: 检察官说这些警察完全没有履行职责。
Blatantly ignore:
Example: “Safety guidelines had been blatantly ignored.”
Translation: 安全规章被公然置之不顾。
Blatant violation:
Example: “Syria called the attack a ‘blatant violation’ of international law.”
Translation: 叙利亚称这次袭击公然违反了国际法。
Etymology
The word “blatant” originated in the late 16th century and initially meant “clamorous, noisy”. It likely comes from the Latin word “blātīre”, meaning “to babble.”
Tips for Remembering
Mnemonics: Think of “blatant” sounding similar to “blaze” or “blabber,” which can help you remember it refers to something loud or obvious.
Visual Association: Picture a noisy, flashing sign that’s hard to ignore, which could symbolize something blatant.
Contextual Practice: Use the word in different sentences yourself. For example, “Her blatant lie was caught immediately,” or “There’s a blatant mistake in this document.”
Additional Examples
Formal Writing: “The CEO’s blatant misuse of company funds resulted in a thorough investigation.”
Casual Speech: “Did you see how blatant his mistake was during the game?”
Conclusion
Understanding the word “blatant” involves recognizing its connotation of being obvious in a negative way. Using it correctly in both formal and informal contexts will make your English sound more natural and nuanced. Practice by identifying blatant actions in current events or literature, and soon it will become a regular part of your vocabulary.
If you have any more words you’d like to explore or need further examples, feel free to ask!