Skip to main content

Display vs Parade vs Array vs Pomp

Display, parade, array, pomp are comparable when denoting a striking or spectacular show or exhibition for the sake of effect.

Display commonly suggests a spreading out or an unfolding of something that is usually concealed or visible only in the mass or in individual instances, so that the observer is impressed by the extent, the detail, the beauty, or the lavishness of what is revealed to him.

Parade implies ostentatious or flaunting exhibition; display may or may not suggest a conscious endeavor to impress, but parade definitely does carry such an implication.

Array stresses order and brilliancy in display of or as if of marshaled ranks of armed soldiers and therefore may be used of displays that strike one as beautiful, as terrible, or as merely astonishing.

Pomp stresses ceremonial grandeur or splendor. Once often but now rarely used of a pageant or solemn procession it still suggests an outward spectacular show of magnificence or glory.