German word

demonstrativ

Pronunciation

IPA/demɔnstʁaˈtiːf/

Meaning

  • adjectivedemonstrative

Example

Sie zeigte ein demonstratives Lächeln.

She gave a demonstrative smile.

Illustration for demonstrativ (demonstrative)

More examples

Sein Verhalten war demonstrativ, um alle Blicke auf sich zu ziehen.

His behavior was showy to draw everyone's attention.

Core concept

A gesture, expression, or appearance is put prominently on display instead of being kept understated.

Common phrases

  • demonstratives Lächeln

    showy smile

  • demonstratives Verhalten

    showy behavior

  • demonstrative Geste

    showy gesture

Similar words

auffällig: Noticeably unusual or striking, drawing attention through appearance or behavior.
protzig: Ostentatiously flashy, especially in displaying wealth or status.
prahlerisch: Making exaggerated claims about personal abilities or possessions.
exhibitionistisch: Displaying the body or behavior excessively to gain attention.

Definition in German

auffällig zur Schau gestellt; beschreibt oft Verhalten oder Auftreten, das auf Aufmerksamkeit zielt

Word origin

The adjective derives through Latin demonstrativus from demonstrare, meaning 'to show', with the idea of making something especially visible.

Usage tips

  • Demonstrativ can describe deliberate public support as well as flashy behavior, and the surrounding noun determines whether the tone is negative.

Other meanings

  • ostentatiousadjective
  • showyadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • Demonstrativpronomendemonstrative pronounnoun
  • Demonstrativitätdemonstrativenessnoun

Word lists with this word