verbosity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
verbosity Word Meanings
- the quality of being verbose; excessive wordiness
- an instance of using more words than necessary
- a tendency to elaborate or elaborate explanations
verbosity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
verbosity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/vəˈbɒsɪti/
US
/vɜːrˈbɔːsɪti/
verbosity Word Etymology
(a) 'verbosus' (Latin) meaning 'wordy' from 'verbum' (word); (b) Originated from Latin to Old French before entering English; (c) Imagine a long-winded professor droning on endlessly, loading the classroom with an avalanche of words, illustrating excessive verbosity.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Verbosity is the quality of being verbose or wordy—the tendency to use more words than necessary. It describes how someone writes or speaks, especially when explanations grow long or repetitive. In careful writing, brevity is valued, but some contexts, such as storytelling or academic discussion, may tolerate or even invite richer detail. The noun contrasts with conciseness, clarity, and precision, and critics often urge editors to trim unnecessary phrases. Its origin lies in Latin verbum "word" plus -osus, and in modern English it can carry a mildly negative shade when overused. Recognizing verbosity helps you decide when to elaborate and when to cut to improve communication.
Usage Reminders
- Verbosity describes talking or writing with more words than needed.
- Use it to discuss style, not overall ability.
- Avoid unnecessary repetition and tangents.
- Tailor detail to your audience and purpose.
- Practice conciseness to improve clarity.
Common Misconceptions
- Verbosity is always bad
- It only applies to spoken language
- Being verbose equals being detailed
- Verbosity equals eloquence in all contexts
- A verbose speaker cares less about clarity
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker in a concise meta-note: English often prizes concision, so teach readers to spot redundancy and tighten phrases.
Learning Tips
- Read a short paragraph and mark any wordy phrases.
- Rewrite the paragraph to be 20% shorter without losing meaning.
- Practice bullet-point summaries of articles.
- Compare two sentences: one verbose, one concise.
- Use a thesaurus to find tighter synonyms.
- Time yourself to trim sentences before finishing a draft.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'verbosity' mean?
A.The quality of being concise
B.The quality of being clear
C.The quality of being wordy
D.The quality of being accurate
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'verbosity' correctly?
A.Her speech was appreciated for its verbosity and clarity.
B.The verbosity of his writing made it difficult to understand.
C.He was praised for the verbosity of his concise report.
D.She aimed to reduce verbosity in her presentation.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'verbosity'?
A.Eloquence
B.Conciseness
C.Prolixity
D.Brevity
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'verbosity'?
A.Conciseness
B.Silence
C.Elaboration
D.Complexity
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where someone might use too many words?
A.During a business meeting, the speaker went on at length about their previous achievements.
B.At a dinner party, everyone shared simple and meaningful stories.
C.In a text message, the friend sent a brief and to-the-point update.
D.In a book, the author succinctly conveyed the message.
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