Epigrammatic: meaning, definitions and examples
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epigrammatic
[ ˌepɪɡrəˈmætɪk ]
literary style
Epigrammatic refers to a style of writing that is concise, clever, and often paradoxical. This term is used to describe statements or remarks that are witty and encapsulate a thought in a pithy manner. Often associated with the literary form of the epigram, which is a brief, memorable, and sometimes satirical poem, epigrammatic writing aims to deliver insight or commentary within a few carefully chosen words. It is commonly found in poetry and aphorisms, making it a popular choice for writers who value precision and impact in their language.
Synonyms
concise, pithy, pointed, terse, witty
Examples of usage
- His epigrammatic wit often left the audience in stitches.
- The author’s style was distinctly epigrammatic, capturing essence in brevity.
- Her epigrammatic remarks were both sharp and insightful.
- He wrote an epigrammatic poem that resonated with many.
Translations
Translations of the word "epigrammatic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 epigramático
🇮🇳 उपदेशात्मक
🇩🇪 epigrammatisch
🇮🇩 epigramatik
🇺🇦 епіграматичний
🇵🇱 epigramatyczny
🇯🇵 エピグラム的な
🇫🇷 épigrammatique
🇪🇸 epigramático
🇹🇷 epigramatik
🇰🇷 에피그램적인
🇸🇦 إيبيغراماتيكي
🇨🇿 epigramatický
🇸🇰 epigramatický
🇨🇳 格言式的
🇸🇮 epigramatičen
🇮🇸 epígramatískur
🇰🇿 эпиграмматикалық
🇬🇪 ეპიგრამატული
🇦🇿 epigrammatik
🇲🇽 epigramático
Etymology
The term 'epigrammatic' derives from the noun 'epigram,' which comes from the Greek word 'epigramma,' meaning 'inscription' or 'to inscribe.' This Greek term is composed of 'epi-' meaning 'upon' and 'grapho' meaning 'to write.' Historically, epigrams were used in ancient Greece, often inscribed on monuments and statues, but over time evolved into a poetic form characterized by brevity and cleverness. The epigrammatic style gained prominence in the works of various poets and writers throughout history, aiming to express complex ideas in a succinct manner. Notable figures such as Martial and Oscar Wilde are famous for their epigrammatic expressions. The use of this style continues in modern literature, showcasing the power of language to convey profound meaning with economy.