Words / B2

BOHST/bəʊst/

To boast is to talk proudly about what you have or can do, often so that it grates: boast about a grade, boast of success. Brag is a close informal cousin; show off is everyday. Boast is also a noun (an empty boast). In speech, showing off is enough. A town can boast a theatre (have it, and mention it with pride) — a journalistic use, less personal. Do not praise someone by saying they boasted unless you mean the sting.

Meaning

To talk proudly about something you have or can do, often in a way that annoys people.

Examples

• “He boasted about his high exam score.”
• “He boasted of a perfect mock, then asked to copy the homework anyway.”
• “The brochure boasts three labs; only two have working gas taps.”

Good to know

Talk proudly (often annoying). Informal: brag / show off. Noun: a boast. Also: a place boasts a feature (journalism). Negative about people.

Near in meaning

brag

New