The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

4.8

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 632 pages, 147 lessons, 428 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

Buy on Amazon

Amazon Best Seller:

#1 Spelling & Vocabulary.

#1 Education TOEFL & TOEIC.

#1 Slang & Idiom Reference Books.

Transform Your Vocabulary!

grandiloquent

adjective

/grænˈdɪl ə kwənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of grandiloquent

Speaking in a pompous or extravagant manner, often using grand, showy, or overly complicated language.
"The poet's grandiloquent verses were praised for their beauty and elegance."

Detailed meaning of grandiloquent

It can also be used to describe a style of writing or speech that is bombastic and full of exaggerated language or over-the-top expressions. In general, grandiloquent language is often seen as overdone or insincere, and can sometimes be used to disguise a lack of substance or meaning behind the words. However, in certain contexts, such as formal speeches or literary works, grandiloquence can be a deliberate stylistic choice intended to convey a sense of grandeur or importance.

Example sentences containing grandiloquent

1. The politician's grandiloquent speech failed to impress the audience.
2. She often uses grandiloquent words to sound more intelligent than she actually is.
3. The grandiloquent music played in the background as the king made his grand entrance.
4. The author's grandiloquent writing style made the book hard to follow.
5. The coach's grandiloquent pep talk motivated the team to win the game.
6. The professor's grandiloquent lectures put most of the students to sleep.

History and etymology of grandiloquent

The adjective 'grandiloquent' has its etymology deeply rooted in Latin. It is formed from two Latin words: 'grandis,' meaning 'grand' or 'great,' and 'loqui,' meaning 'to speak.' When combined, 'grandiloquent' literally means 'speaking grandly' or 'in a grand manner.' It describes a style of speech characterized by the use of pompous, extravagant, or overly complicated language with the aim of impressing or appearing important. Those who employ grandiloquent speech often do so to elevate their own status or to make their words seem more significant than they might actually be. Therefore, the etymology of 'grandiloquent' emphasizes its historical association with speaking in a grand and showy manner, underscoring its connection to the use of elevated and complex language, as conveyed by its linguistic heritage.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective grandiloquent:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of grandiloquent

1. The actor's grandiloquent performance earned him a standing ovation.
2. The CEO's grandiloquent announcement of the company's new product was met with skepticism.
3. The president's grandiloquent promises failed to materialize.
4. The artist's grandiloquent paintings were admired by many but understood by few.
5. The lawyer's grandiloquent argument failed to sway the jury.
6. His grandiloquent speeches often left listeners perplexed.
7. She had a penchant for grandiloquent expressions in her writing.
8. The grandiloquent rhetoric of the orator impressed some and annoyed others.
9. The grandiloquent style of the novelist made the book challenging to read.
10. The professor's grandiloquent lecture drew mixed reviews from students.
11. The lawyer's grandiloquent arguments failed to sway the judge.
12. The politician's grandiloquent promises raised doubts among voters.
13. The CEO's grandiloquent vision for the company excited investors.
14. The playwright's grandiloquent dialogue added depth to the characters.
15. His grandiloquent praise of the artwork seemed insincere.
16. The diplomat's grandiloquent statements aimed to ease tensions.
17. The movie's grandiloquent dialogue felt out of place in a modern setting.
18. The CEO's grandiloquent plans for expansion were met with skepticism.
19. The novelist's grandiloquent descriptions painted vivid landscapes.
20. Her grandiloquent gestures emphasized her passion for the topic.
21. The preacher's grandiloquent sermons captivated the congregation.
22. The teacher's grandiloquent explanations clarified complex concepts.
23. The poet's grandiloquent verses resonated with literary enthusiasts.
24. The critic found the play's grandiloquent language pretentious.
25. His grandiloquent compliments made her feel uneasy.