Wordage: meaning, definitions and examples
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wordage
[ ˈwɜrdɪdʒ ]
language use
Wordage refers to the choice and use of words in speech or writing. It particularly emphasizes the wording or phrasing utilized in a particular context. This term is often used to discuss the effectiveness or clarity of the language being used. Excessive or poor wordage can detract from the main message, while concise wordage can enhance clarity and impact.
Synonyms
diction, lingo, phraseology, terminology, vocabulary.
Examples of usage
- The wordage in his essay was overly complicated.
- She revised the wordage of the press release for clarity.
- The speaker criticized the wordage of the bill.
- Using precise wordage can improve understanding.
Translations
Translations of the word "wordage" in other languages:
🇵🇹 redação
🇮🇳 शब्दावली
🇩🇪 Wortwahl
🇮🇩 pilihan kata
🇺🇦 словниковий запас
🇵🇱 dobór słów
🇯🇵 言葉遣い
🇫🇷 choix des mots
🇪🇸 elección de palabras
🇹🇷 kelime seçimi
🇰🇷 단어 선택
🇸🇦 اختيار الكلمات
🇨🇿 výběr slov
🇸🇰 výber slov
🇨🇳 措辞
🇸🇮 izbira besed
🇮🇸 orðaval
🇰🇿 сөз таңдау
🇬🇪 სიტყვების არჩევა
🇦🇿 söz seçimi
🇲🇽 elección de palabras
Etymology
The term 'wordage' appeared in English in the early 19th century, derived from the combination of 'word' and the suffix '-age.' 'Word' itself has Old English roots, originating from 'word,' which means a unit of language that native speakers can repeat. The suffix '-age' is used in English to indicate a state, condition, or collective amount of something. Hence, 'wordage' conveys the concept of a body or quantity of words. It has since evolved to encompass not only the physical number of words but also the stylistic choices and effectiveness of language in communication. Over the years, 'wordage' has been frequently used in academic writing, journalism, and various media to critique or analyze the use of language, highlighting its importance in conveying ideas clearly and efficiently.