Meaning & use
grandiloquent
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Meaning
adjectivecomparabledisapproving
Using long, complicated words in a way that sounds pompous and is meant to impress.
Grammar: Can be used before a noun (a grandiloquent speech) or after a linking verb (The speech was grandiloquent).
Patterns
- grandiloquent language
- grandiloquent speech
- sound grandiloquent
His grandiloquent style made the simple announcement sound ridiculous.
The article was criticized for its grandiloquent language.
She gave a grandiloquent speech full of obscure words.
Word forms
| comparative | more grandiloquent |
|---|---|
| superlative | most grandiloquent |
Common combinations
- grandiloquent language
- The essay was full of grandiloquent language.
- grandiloquent speech
- His grandiloquent speech failed to convince anyone.
- grandiloquent style
- The author's grandiloquent style is an acquired taste.
Synonyms and how they differ
- pompous
- Focuses on self-importance; 'grandiloquent' specifically refers to inflated language.
- bombastic
- Similar but often implies loud, aggressive speech; 'grandiloquent' is more about elaborate words.
- florid
- Describes ornate, flowery language; 'grandiloquent' adds a sense of trying too hard to impress.
Opposites
Word family
- grandiloquence noun
- The use of pompous or extravagant language.
- grandiloquently adverb
- In a grandiloquent manner.
Commonly confused: grandiloquent or magniloquent?
grandiloquent vs magniloquent
Very similar, but 'magniloquent' often implies lofty or noble expression; 'grandiloquent' is more negative, suggesting pomposity.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'grandiloquent' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Grandiloquent' describes language that is pompous and elaborate, so it fits with 'vocabulary'. Option 0 misuses it for a visual scene. Option 2 is contradictory because a whisper is not grandiloquent. Option 3 is nonsensical.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “grandiloquent”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.