devoid of vainglory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devoid of vainglory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that lacks excessive pride or vanity. Example: "The artist's work is truly remarkable, as it is devoid of vainglory, focusing instead on the beauty of the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He was embarrassed, perfectly devoid of vainglory.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

My theory: Cheney isn't simply going out in a blaze of vainglory.

The New York Times

At that moment, in my haze of vainglory, I could not determine a single personal deficit.

The New York Times - Style

Devoid of social value.

The New York Times

Oddly devoid of people.

The New York Times

Devoid of all dismay.

Independent

Devoid of any empathy.

The New York Times

Teenagers seem devoid of wonder.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's energetic but devoid of texture.

The New York Times - Arts

The sea was devoid of life.

The New Yorker

No wonder it is devoid of visitors.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "devoid of vainglory" to describe characters or actions in literary or formal contexts where you want to emphasize a genuine lack of pride or self-importance.

Common error

Avoid using "devoid of vainglory" in casual conversation; its formal tone can sound stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "humble" or "modest" in everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devoid of vainglory" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It indicates the absence of excessive pride or vanity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and meaning, as demonstrated in the provided example from The New Yorker.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "devoid of vainglory" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, meaning lacking excessive pride or vanity. However, it's relatively rare and formal, best suited for literary or descriptive writing. While it effectively conveys humility, simpler alternatives like "humble" or "modest" are more appropriate for everyday conversation. The phrase's limited usage is primarily found in news and media sources. Using similar words such as "without arrogance" or "lacking vanity" may result in a more colloquial tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without arrogance

Focuses on the absence of arrogant behavior or attitude.

lacking vanity

Directly states the absence of vanity, a simpler and more common expression.

free from conceit

Emphasizes the absence of exaggerated self-importance.

humble in spirit

Highlights the quality of humility, contrasting with a vainglorious attitude.

modest and unassuming

Describes a lack of pretension or showiness.

without self-importance

Directly addresses the absence of an inflated sense of self.

unpretentious

Implies a lack of effort to impress others with one's importance.

not boastful

Focuses on the absence of boasting or bragging.

lacking self-aggrandizement

Emphasizes the absence of actions to enhance one's own importance.

devoid of self-promotion

Highlights the lack of actively promoting oneself.

FAQs

How can I use "devoid of vainglory" in a sentence?

You can use "devoid of vainglory" to describe someone who lacks excessive pride or vanity. For example: "The artist's work is truly remarkable, as it is devoid of vainglory, focusing instead on the beauty of the subject."

What is a simpler way to say "devoid of vainglory"?

You can use alternatives like "without arrogance", "lacking vanity", or "humble in spirit" depending on the specific context.

Is "devoid of vainglory" a common phrase?

No, "devoid of vainglory" is not a common phrase. It's more frequently found in formal writing or literary contexts than in everyday speech.

What does "vainglory" mean?

"Vainglory" means excessive pride in and boastful elation about one's own accomplishments or qualities; empty boastfulness.