prolix
/prolix/
Definition
Adjective: 1. Tediously prolonged in speech or writing: Using or containing an excessive number of words; unnecessarily lengthy and wordy. 2. Tending to speak or write at excessive length: Characterized by verbosity; prone to using more words than are needed.
Usage
The word "prolix" is a formal adjective used to describe language, speech, or text that is unnecessarily and tediously long. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the communication is boring, difficult to follow, or could have been expressed more concisely. It is typically applied to formal contexts like speeches, legal documents, academic writing, or explanations.
Examples
- The professor's prolix explanation confused the students more than it helped.
- Legal documents are often criticized for being prolix and difficult for laypeople to understand.
- She avoided asking him questions because his answers were always so prolix.
Advanced Usage
- "Prolixity" (noun): The quality or state of being prolix.
- The editor cut several pages from the manuscript to reduce its prolixity.
- "Prolixly" (adverb): In a prolix manner.
- He spoke prolixly about a minor point, losing the audience's attention.
Variants and Related Words
- Prolixity (n): The state or quality of being wordy and long-winded.
- Verbose (adj): Similar to prolix, meaning using more words than needed.
- Tautological (adj): Characterized by unnecessary repetition, often leading to prolixity.
- Circumlocutory (adj): Using many words where fewer would do, especially in a deliberate attempt to be vague or evasive.
Synonyms
- Wordy
- Verbose
- Long-winded
- Rambling
- Diffuse
- Garrulous (when referring specifically to speech)
Antonyms
- Concise
- Succinct
- Terse
- Laconic
- Pithy
Idioms and Phrases
- "To be prolix in one's speech/writing": To habitually express oneself in an overly wordy manner.
- The author is known for being prolix in his writing, often taking a chapter to say what could be said in a paragraph.
Adjective
-
tediously prolonged or tending to speak or write at great length
-
editing a prolix manuscript
-
a prolix lecturer telling you more than you want to know
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