Verbiage: meaning, definitions and examples
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verbiage
[ ˈvɜːr.bi.ɪdʒ ]
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?
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.
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wordiness |
Generally used to describe speech or writing that is overly long and filled with unnecessary words. It often implies a lack of conciseness.
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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.
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prolixity |
Typically used when referring to someone who speaks or writes at excessive length, often in a way that is excessively detailed or boring.
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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.
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
Etymology
The word 'verbiage' originated in the early 18th century from the French word 'verbier', meaning 'to chatter'. It evolved to refer to excessive use of words or verbosity. The term has been used to critique unnecessary complexity or verbosity in language, emphasizing the importance of clarity and conciseness in communication.
See also: adverb, proverb, verb, verbal, verbalize, verbing, verbose, verbosity.
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.
- ...
- 26382 phonetically
- 26383 inflectional
- 26384 dully
- 26385 verbiage
- 26386 henchmen
- 26387 hookworm
- 26388 recommenced
- ...