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Verbiage: meaning, definitions and examples

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verbiage

 

[ˈvɜːr.bi.ɪdʒ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

excessive language

Verbiage refers to an excessive and overcomplicated use of words, often with the intention to sound more intelligent or important than necessary. It can also describe language that is overly wordy or difficult to understand.

Synonyms

prolixity, verbosity, wordiness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
verbiage

Often used to describe writing or speech that has too many unnecessary words, which can make the message unclear or overly complicated.

  • The report was filled with so much verbiage that it was hard to understand the main points.
  • His emails are always full of verbiage, making them difficult to read.
wordiness

Generally used to describe speech or writing that is overly long and filled with unnecessary words. It often implies a lack of conciseness.

  • Her essay was marked down due to its wordiness.
  • In an effort to avoid wordiness, she trimmed her speech to the essentials.
verbosity

This word is generally used to indicate an overuse of words, especially when more concise language could be used. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The lawyer's verbosity in court did not help his client's case.
  • Due to his verbosity, no one could get a word in during the meeting.
prolixity

Typically used when referring to someone who speaks or writes at excessive length, often in a way that is excessively detailed or boring.

  • The professor's prolixity during lectures often puts students to sleep.
  • Her prolixity in storytelling made the simple tale stretch on for hours.

Examples of usage

  • Her speech was filled with verbiage, making it hard for the audience to follow.
  • The contract was full of legal verbiage that was difficult for the average person to comprehend.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Derived from the French word 'verbiage', it originally meant the use of words.
  • The English use of 'verbiage' started in the early 19th century, indicating the adoption of French influences in English.
  • In its roots, 'verbiage' connects to 'verb', highlighting the focus on words in speech or writing.

Communication

  • Studies show that excessive verbiage can lead to misunderstandings, as simpler language often conveys meaning more clearly.
  • Clear communication is often more effective in professional settings; using less verbiage can improve audience engagement.
  • In writing, eliminating unnecessary verbiage can enhance the piece's overall impact and readability.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular comedians often point out the overuse of verbiage for comedic effect, poking fun at how people complicate simple messages.
  • The phrase 'less is more' is frequently referenced in media to criticize excessive verbiage in speeches and texts.
  • Television shows and films use witty dialogues that sometimes highlight the absurdity of characters using too much verbiage.

Literature

  • In literature, authors play with verbiage to create specific tones or styles, sometimes using flowery language to evoke emotion.
  • Notable literary critiques often focus on 'verbiage', analyzing how authors balance eloquence without losing clarity in stories.
  • Poets might embrace verbiage as a stylistic choice, weaving intricate patterns of language while still holding meaning.

Psychology

  • Psychological studies suggest that people often perceive verbose explanations as more credible, even when simpler language would suffice.
  • Research indicates that listeners' attention can wane with too much verbiage, leading to a decrease in retention of information.
  • Verbiage can reflect a speaker's insecurity or need to impress others, as they might feel compelled to use complex language.

Translations

Translations of the word "verbiage" in other languages:

🇵🇹 verborreia

🇮🇳 शब्दजाल

🇩🇪 Wortschwall

🇮🇩 verbalitas

🇺🇦 словоблуддя

🇵🇱 gadanina

🇯🇵 冗語

🇫🇷 verbiage

🇪🇸 verborrea

🇹🇷 laf kalabalığı

🇰🇷 장황함

🇸🇦 ثرثرة

🇨🇿 žvanění

🇸🇰 žvanenie

🇨🇳 废话

🇸🇮 besedičenje

🇮🇸 orðavaðall

🇰🇿 сөз бұрмалау

🇬🇪 სიტყვათმთევლობა

🇦🇿 söz yığımı

🇲🇽 verborrea

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,385, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.