Words / C2

BLUST-uh/ˈblʌstə/

Bluster is loud, aggressive talk that achieves little (also a verb): empty bluster, bluster through a question. Boast (already in the dictionary) is of one’s own merit; bravado (this batch) is a show of boldness, often to hide fear. Stentorian (already in the dictionary) is of a booming voice, not of the emptiness. A numbered objection is not corridor weather.

Meaning

Loud, aggressive talk with little effect (also a verb).

Examples

• “Bluster in the corridor is not a numbered objection.”
• “Boast is of self-praise (already in B2). Bravado is a show of nerve (this batch). Stentorian is booming (already in C2). Heat in the corridor is theatre. Two figures on a slide can be calm and still fatal. Table the n; spare the gale.”

Good to know

Loud empty swagger (also a verb). Everyday: hot air. Close: bravado (this batch). Contrast: boast (self-praise — already in B2); stentorian (of volume — already in C2). Weather ≠ a finding.

Near in meaning

hot air, bravado, swagger, bombast

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