pomp and circumstance

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   The grand display, ritual, and splendor that go with an important official or ceremonial event.

   Grammar: Treated as one uncountable unit: the pomp and circumstance was impressive.

   Patterns

   • with great pomp and circumstance
   • the pomp and circumstance of something

   The coronation was carried out with great pomp and circumstance.

   Graduation day brought all the usual pomp and circumstance.

   He disliked the pomp and circumstance that surrounded the opening of Parliament.

2. 2phrasefixed phrasemusic

   The title of a set of marches by the composer Edward Elgar, one of which is played at many graduations.

   Grammar: Capitalized when it names the music: Pomp and Circumstance.

   Patterns

   • Pomp and Circumstance March

   The band played Pomp and Circumstance as the graduates filed in.

   Many students recognize Pomp and Circumstance from their graduation ceremonies.

   The orchestra opened its concert with Pomp and Circumstance.

Common combinations

with great pomp and circumstance

The new bridge was opened with great pomp and circumstance.

all the pomp and circumstance

We skipped all the pomp and circumstance and had a small wedding.

royal pomp and circumstance

Tourists gather to watch the royal pomp and circumstance.

without pomp and circumstance

The award was handed over without pomp and circumstance.

pomp and circumstance of office

The mayor enjoyed the pomp and circumstance of office.

Synonyms and how they differ

ceremony

Ceremony is the event itself, while pomp and circumstance describes its grandeur.

splendor

Splendor means magnificent appearance in general and is not tied to formal occasions.

pageantry

Pageantry stresses colorful public spectacle, such as parades and costumes.

fanfare

Fanfare suggests noisy publicity and display, not necessarily formal ritual.

Opposites

Word family

pomp noun

grand ceremony and display

pompous adjective

too serious and self-important

pomposity noun

self-important behavior

circumstance noun

a condition or fact connected with an event

Commonly confused: pomp and circumstance or pompous?

Practice

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