Glib: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who speaks easily and confidently but without sincerity or depth. Often implies superficiality.

• His glib answers made it clear that he hadn't really studied the material.
• She gave a glib response to the complex question, which didn't satisfy the audience.

Used to describe someone who is not showing a serious or respectful attitude. Often seen as dismissive or disrespectful.

• His flippant remarks during the meeting offended many people.
• She was reprimanded for her flippant attitude towards important matters.

Used to describe someone who is smooth and persuasive, often implying deceitfulness or a lack of sincerity. Can also refer to something highly polished.

• The salesman used his slick talk to convince her to buy the car.
• His presentation was slick but lacked substance.

Describes someone who is charming and effortlessly confident. Can be positive or negative based on context; sometimes implies insincerity.

• He has a smooth way of talking that makes everyone feel at ease.
• Though his words were smooth, they left her feeling uneasy.

Use this word when describing someone who speaks in a smooth, easy manner but lacks depth and sincerity.

• His glib answers made it clear that he hadn't thought deeply about the issue.
• She had a glib way of getting out of difficult questions.

This word is best used to describe someone or something that is only concerned with the surface level, lacking depth or substance.

• Their relationship was superficial, based only on physical attraction.
• He has a superficial understanding of the topic, knowing only the basics.

Use this word when referring to someone who is not expressing genuine feelings or thoughts.

• Her apology seemed insincere because she kept repeating the same mistakes.
• He gave her an insincere compliment, hoping to win her favor.

This word is suitable for situations where someone or something intentionally misleads or hides the truth.

• The advertising was deceptive, making the product seem much better than it was.
• He had a deceptive charm that hid his true motives.

This word is often used to describe someone who speaks smoothly but insincerely, often in a superficial or shallow manner. It can carry negative connotations.

• His explanation was glib, and it left everyone feeling unconvinced.
• The politician gave a glib response to the serious question.

Fluency is the ability to express oneself easily and articulately, especially in a foreign language. It suggests smooth and effortless communication.

• She achieved fluency in Spanish after living in Madrid for a year.
• His fluency in English made him an excellent interpreter.

Eloquence refers to the ability to speak or write in a fluent, forceful, and persuasive manner. It is often used to describe someone's ability to express ideas beautifully and convincingly.

• Martin Luther King Jr.'s eloquence inspired many people during the Civil Rights Movement.
• The author's eloquence shines through every page of the novel.

This word refers to the quality of being able to express oneself clearly and effectively. It is often used in a positive context, to commend someone's speaking ability.

• Her articulateness in explaining complex topics is impressive.
• The teacher praised the student for his articulateness during the presentation.