Word: Double Talk
Definition:
"Double talk" is a noun that refers to language that is confusing or deliberately unclear. It often sounds like it means something, but it doesn’t really say anything useful or understandable. People might use double talk to avoid giving a clear answer or to mislead others.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "double talk" when you want to describe speech or writing that is complicated or vague, making it difficult to understand the real meaning. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.
Example:
- "The politician's speech was full of double talk, making it hard to know what he really planned to do."
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced contexts, "double talk" can also imply that someone is trying to manipulate or deceive by using complicated language. For example, in business negotiations, a person might use double talk to obscure the true cost of a deal.
Word Variants:
- Double-talker (noun): A person who uses double talk.
Example: "He’s such a double-talker; you can never trust what he says."
Different Meanings:
While "double talk" primarily refers to confusing language, it can also be used to describe situations where someone is being non-committal or evasive in their communication.
Synonyms:
- Gibberish - Nonsense - Bafflegab - Jargon (when it is unnecessarily complex)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "double talk" itself is not part of a specific idiom or phrasal verb, you might encounter phrases like: - "Talk in circles": This means to speak in a confusing way without getting to the point. Example: "During the meeting, she just talked in circles instead of addressing the issue."