act of vanity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "act of vanity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a behavior or action that is motivated by self-importance or a desire for admiration. Example: "Her decision to post countless selfies online seemed like an act of vanity rather than a genuine expression of her life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Isn't seeking publication always an act of vanity?

The Guardian - Books

"That would be an act of vanity," he said.

The New York Times - Science

"To resign," he said on Radio Shalom, "would be an act of vanity and desertion".

The New York Times

One is left to wonder: is Paul Watson's project a mere act of vanity?

The Guardian - Opinion

"Skiing is, in some respects, an act of vanity," Nick Paumgarten wrote in the magazine, in 2010.

The New Yorker

But the impression could also linger of Livingstone lost in an act of vanity, crying at his own election material.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

If costume can be justified as a functional object, particularly in that it is associated with the very masculine act of combat, it can be distanced from feminine acts of vanity, and childish acts of play.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

His modesty is a kind of tough-guy act, a lack of vanity so aggressive it makes him almost wholly resistant to criticism.

The Guardian - Film

I could keep it, but that'd be an act of incredible vanity.

The Guardian - Arts

Colker herself, in an act of shameless vanity, takes over the Pushkin role at random moments, giving herself the dreamiest music, such as the adagio in Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto (piped and deliberately distorted, as if through bathwater).

Independent

If ever there was a time when I felt like ministry was an act of complete vanity, this was it.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "act of vanity", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the motivation behind the action. Is it truly about self-admiration, or could there be other factors at play, such as insecurity or a desire for attention?

Common error

Avoid using "act of vanity" when the action is primarily driven by factors other than self-admiration. Actions that appear vain may stem from deeper needs or insecurities. Accurately assess the underlying motivation to avoid misrepresentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act of vanity" functions as a noun phrase typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig confirms, it describes an action motivated by excessive pride or self-admiration. It serves to label or categorize a specific behavior.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Opinion

10%

Arts

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "act of vanity" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes an action motivated by excessive pride or a desire for admiration. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it serves to negatively evaluate behaviors. When considering using the phrase "act of vanity", ensure that the underlying motivation aligns with self-admiration rather than other potential factors such as insecurity or the pursuit of attention. Alternatives like "display of conceit" or "show of egotism" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display of conceit

Focuses on the outward manifestation of excessive pride in oneself.

exhibition of self-importance

Highlights the act of showing off one's perceived superior status.

gesture of self-admiration

Emphasizes the act of expressing love or approval for oneself.

show of egotism

Implies a blatant and often offensive display of self-centeredness.

expression of vainglory

Suggests a boastful display of pride in one's achievements or qualities.

manifestation of narcissism

Highlights the pathological aspect of excessive self-love and admiration.

instance of ostentation

Focuses on a pretentious display intended to impress others.

parade of self-regard

Implies a conspicuous and often annoying display of one's own importance.

performance of self-love

Suggests an artificial or insincere display of affection for oneself.

spectacle of self-worship

Highlights the extreme and almost religious devotion to oneself.

FAQs

How can I use "act of vanity" in a sentence?

You can use "act of vanity" to describe an action motivated by excessive pride or a desire for admiration. For example: "His decision to publish the book was seen as an "act of vanity"."

What phrases are similar to "act of vanity"?

Similar phrases include "display of conceit", "show of egotism", or "gesture of self-admiration". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "act of vanity" a negative expression?

Yes, "act of vanity" typically carries a negative connotation, implying that the action is driven by excessive pride or self-regard, often to an inappropriate or off-putting extent.

What's the difference between "act of vanity" and "act of self-confidence"?

"Act of vanity" implies an excessive and often unwarranted sense of self-importance, while "act of self-confidence" suggests a healthy belief in one's abilities and worth. The key difference lies in the degree and appropriateness of the self-regard.