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Literary notes about flippantly (AI summary)

In literature, "flippantly" is often used to imbue dialogue or narrative with an air of casual irreverence or dismissiveness. Authors deploy the term to indicate that a remark is delivered in a light, sometimes sarcastic tone, suggesting a lack of deference even when addressing serious topics [1]. Its use can accentuate a character's nonchalant or witty personality, as seen when a character downplays the gravity of a situation or interjects humor in the midst of tension [2]. Moreover, by characterizing speech as flippant, writers create a contrast between the speaker’s light-hearted disposition and the weight of the subject matter, thus adding depth to the narrative tone [3] [4].
  1. "Oh, by boat or train, I suppose," said Dick flippantly.
    — from Bert Wilson at Panama by J. W. Duffield
  2. “The innkeeper is a pious man who——” “So was Judas; and he was one of the Apostles,” interrupted Armstrong flippantly, unheeding the other’s anger.
    — from Over the Border: A Romance by Robert Barr
  3. It becomes repellent to hear one use the name of God flippantly and constantly.
    — from Studies in the Epistle of James by A. T. Robertson
  4. "Then come and see," he returned flippantly.
    — from Chippinge Borough by Stanley John Weyman

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