Posturingly is an adverb that describes an action performed in a way that is intended to impress or deceive, often by behaving in a pretentious or affected manner. It suggests a lack of genuineness, a focus on outward appearance over substance, and a desire to be perceived in a specific, often exaggerated, way. The action is deliberately theatrical, designed to create a particular impression, and usually betrays an underlying insecurity or attempt to manipulate perceptions. The actions imply insincerity or a facade. The performance or display is frequently intended to draw attention or demonstrate power, competence, or intelligence, whether truly possessed or not.
Posturingly meaning with examples
- The politician answered the questions posturingly, using elaborate language and evasive tactics to avoid directly addressing the issues raised. The audience quickly saw through the superficiality and dismissed his pronouncements as empty rhetoric, losing respect and trust.
- He spoke posturingly about his achievements, exaggerating his role in the project and attempting to overshadow his colleagues' contributions. His attempts at self-aggrandizement felt uncomfortable and made him appear insecure, and the team members felt annoyed.
- The actor delivered his lines posturingly, adopting a dramatic tone and exaggerated gestures that detracted from the character's emotional depth. It felt shallow and the performance drew negative reviews, with critics finding it unconvincing and artificial.
- The artist presented his work posturingly, employing cryptic explanations and intellectual jargon to make it seem more profound than it actually was. Many gallery visitors found the descriptions confusing and the art seemed to lack substance.
- She dressed posturingly for the interview, choosing expensive and showy attire that was more about impressing the hiring manager than demonstrating her skills. The interviewers took note of this and discounted her as superficial.