French Conversation · Level 77
60 words
French word
vanité
Pronunciation
IPA/vanite/
Meaning
- feminine nounvanity
Example
Sa vanité l'empêche d'admettre ses erreurs.
His vanity prevents him from admitting his mistakes.
More examples
Sa vanité le pousse à se vanter.
His vanity drives him to boast.
Core concept
A mirror, fine clothes, and an audience whose approval seems to determine personal worth.
Common phrases
par vanité
out of vanity
vanité excessive
excessive vanity
Similar words
prétention: An inflated presentation of one's abilities, importance, or qualities.
orgueil: Self-respect based on one's position, abilities, or personal worth.
fierté: A feeling of satisfaction and honor from successful efforts.
arrogance: A superior manner that treats other people with disdain.
Definition in French
Sentiment d'orgueil fondé sur l'apparence, la réputation ou le désir d'être admiré.
Word origin
The French noun vanité developed from Latin vanitas through Old French and retained its link with emptiness while gaining its modern sense of pride in admiration.
Usage tips
- For a person, French normally uses vaniteux or vaniteuse; vanité names the feeling rather than the person.