Prolix: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in formal or literary contexts to describe writing or speech that is tediously lengthy and filled with unnecessary details.

• The professor's prolix lecture put half of the students to sleep.
• The prolix novel received mixed reviews due to its excessive detail.

Used when speech or writing contains more words than necessary, often in a critical way.

• The verbose essay was difficult to read because of its unnecessary length.
• Being verbose isn't always bad, but it can make communication more difficult.

Mostly used in everyday conversation to describe someone who talks too much or with too many words, making it difficult for others to stay engaged.

• Her long-winded explanation left everyone confused.
• He is known for his long-winded speeches that never get to the point.

Implying disorganized or incoherent speech or writing that doesn't stay on topic; often has a negative connotation.

• His rambling speech confused the audience.
• The rambling email made it hard to understand the main point.

Describing writing or speech with too many words; commonly used in a neutral or informal context.

• The contract was too wordy for anyone to easily understand.
• Her wordy explanation could have been much shorter.

Used to describe someone who is very talkative, often in a positive or neutral sense.

• She is a loquacious host who entertains her guests all night.
• His loquacious nature makes him a great storyteller.