a flippant response

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a flippant response" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reply that is not serious or is dismissive of the topic at hand. Example: "Her flippant response to the serious question left everyone in the room feeling uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

No, that's a flippant response.

Independent

It was a flippant response, which ignored the obvious: Blum should have resisted the money.

The New Yorker

Mr. Moore said one roommate called the landlord on Thursday night, but received only a flippant response.

The New York Times

He kept up his barrage on Oxford, which finally issued a flippant response on Friday: "If only there were a word to describe how strongly you felt about feminism".

The New Yorker

After Schumacher gave a flippant response at the penultimate race to a question about how he would sum up his year — "Good fun!" he said — he was asked what he could offer the team next year, considering that his teammate had been a little faster than him all season.

The New York Times - Sports

It was a flippant response; the mention of cooking pots was either callousness, an awkward attempt at humour, or a sign that Mr Assad has become so disconnected from what is happening that he feels overwhelmed.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But, she said, Ms. Hunter preferred to give a more "flippant" response to the article and not deny it outright.

The New York Times

I don't intend to make a flippant, semantic response, but I think what all of us ought to do is to, at some level, engage with some of the central debates in it.

The New York Times

He is not one for the flippant response.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr Key's flippant response was widely criticised.

The Economist

It has since apologised for the "flippant" response and is reviewing the example sentence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a flippant response" when you want to describe a reply that lacks seriousness or shows a dismissive attitude towards the topic or person involved. Ensure the context warrants this characterization, as it carries a negative connotation.

Common error

Avoid using "a flippant response" when the situation calls for a sincere or thoughtful answer. Using it inappropriately can damage relationships or undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a flippant response" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "flippant" modifies the noun "response". It describes the kind of response given. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a flippant response" describes a reply that is dismissive, disrespectful, or lacking in appropriate seriousness. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it is most commonly found in news and media contexts, using it requires careful consideration of the setting and desired impact. Alternatives such as "a glib answer" or "a dismissive answer" may be more suitable depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey. Be mindful of the negative connotations and avoid using it in situations that demand sincerity and respect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dismissive answer

This phrase emphasizes the lack of consideration or importance given to the question or situation.

a glib answer

This alternative suggests a smooth and effortless response, often implying insincerity or superficiality.

a sarcastic response

This implies the use of irony or mockery to convey a negative sentiment.

a superficial response

This suggests a lack of depth or understanding in the answer provided.

a disrespectful reply

This alternative indicates a lack of politeness or regard for the person being addressed.

an offhand answer

This implies a casual and informal response, potentially lacking the appropriate level of consideration.

a facetious reply

This option indicates a response that is humorous or playful, but potentially inappropriate or ill-timed.

a frivolous response

This suggests a lack of seriousness or purpose in the reply.

a cavalier reply

This suggests a lack of concern or seriousness, often to the point of being arrogant.

a cheeky answer

This option indicates a bold and slightly disrespectful response, often in a playful way.

FAQs

How can I use "a flippant response" in a sentence?

You can use "a flippant response" to describe someone's unserious or dismissive reply, such as: "Her "a flippant response" to the judge's question shocked the courtroom."

What's a good alternative to "a flippant response"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a glib answer", "a dismissive answer", or "a superficial response".

What does it mean when someone gives "a flippant response"?

Giving "a flippant response" generally means that the person is replying in a way that is not serious, lacks respect, or dismisses the importance of the topic or question at hand.

Is it appropriate to give "a flippant response" in a professional setting?

Generally, it is not appropriate to give "a flippant response" in a professional setting. It can be seen as unprofessional, disrespectful, and can damage your credibility. Sincerity and thoughtfulness are usually valued more in those contexts.