as in affectation
the quality or state of appearing or trying to appear more important or more valuable than is the case
the personal essay accompanying his college application was devoid of the inflation and self-aggrandizement that all too often is found in such writings
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of inflation
The Federal Reserve is likely to stay in wait-and-see mode and leave interest rates alone at the end of its two-day meeting April 29 as the Iran war risks driving up inflation and concerns about the job market linger.
—
Rachel Barber, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2026
However, after years of cumulative inflation, consumers are more price-sensitive, more willing to compare, and less reflexively loyal.
—Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 27 Apr. 2026
Hepp also warns rates could rise if the next Consumer Price Index (CPI) data shows inflation is still higher than expected, oil prices jump again or the ceasefire falls apart.
—Tim Maxwell, CBS News, 27 Apr. 2026
His drive to eliminate Argentina’s chronic inflation has stalled, unemployment has climbed and the economy has contracted.
—ABC News, 27 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inflation
Rachel Barber, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2026
However, after years of cumulative inflation, consumers are more price-sensitive, more willing to compare, and less reflexively loyal.
—Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 27 Apr. 2026
Hepp also warns rates could rise if the next Consumer Price Index (CPI) data shows inflation is still higher than expected, oil prices jump again or the ceasefire falls apart.
—Tim Maxwell, CBS News, 27 Apr. 2026
His drive to eliminate Argentina’s chronic inflation has stalled, unemployment has climbed and the economy has contracted.
—ABC News, 27 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inflation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inflation
Noun
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Slumming with her sister in San Francisco after her life with her Madoff-like ex in New York implodes, Jasmine Francis isn't quite willing to let go of the affectations that come with living in high society.—
Darren Franich,
Entertainment Weekly,
15 Mar. 2026
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For the most part though, For the First Time, Again is weighed down by oversinging and emotional affectation.—
Millan Verma,
Pitchfork,
30 Jan. 2026
Noun
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The doctor further explained that the traits of a narcissist encompass low empathy, arrogance, entitlement, grandiosity and pathological selfishness.—
Brie Stimson,
FOXNews.com,
26 Apr. 2026
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They both, in a good way, reek of confidence – not arrogance but confidence.—
Miami Herald,
Miami Herald,
26 Apr. 2026
Noun
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On the day of Lincoln’s election, the Wide Awakes patrolled polling places under the pretense of protecting democracy, while opponents viewed it as voter intimidation.—
Mia Cathell,
The Washington Examiner,
27 Apr. 2026
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Authorities said the gun had been purchased under false pretenses in Indiana.—
Caroline Kubzansky,
Chicago Tribune,
27 Apr. 2026
Noun
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Spiegelman uses the term micro-looting, dressing up petty theft in political pretensions.—
Thomas Chatterton Williams,
The Atlantic,
23 Apr. 2026
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Service feels attentive without formality or pretension.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
23 Apr. 2026
Noun
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The elevated bamboo design looks sleek in any space, whether used as a writing desk, makeup vanity, or side table, and has earned numerous five-star ratings for its sturdiness, quality, and ease of assembly.—
Mariana Best,
Better Homes & Gardens,
26 Apr. 2026
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There’s space to spread out, too, with notably generous layouts and extra-large bathroom vanities.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
25 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Inflation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inflation. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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