Synonyms for
Vain
Definition
having or showing an excessively high opinion of one's appearance, abilities, or worth
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- in vain
- vain attempt
- vain hope
- vain glory
- vain pursuit
- vain repetition
- vain and foolish
Word family
Usage note
Often used to describe someone excessively concerned with their appearance or achievements. The phrase 'in vain' means without success or a useful result.
Compare "vain" with another word →
Example sentences
- He was too vain to wear glasses, even though he could not see clearly.
- She was so vain that she spent all her time taking selfies.
- He made a vain attempt to impress his boss with his new suit.
- She was disappointed when her vain efforts to win the competition failed.
- He was too vain to accept his mistakes and apologize.
Quotes
It is better to be beautiful than to be good, but it is better to be good than to be ugly.
Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously.
Vanity working on a weak head, produces every sort of mischief.