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What is the word that describes a person who...

Posted by Denis DNT · April 26, 2012 · 4 replies

What word do we use to describe someone who uses difficult, high sounding words and phrases to communicate a very simple idea that doesn't need such words and phrases?

A student asked me this question in class last week. I promised her to look for an answer but I haven't been able to find one. I have talked to two of my colleagues but they too can't come up with the word.
At first thought the word "wordy" came to mind but this simply means using too many words to describe something.

I'd appreciate any suggestions.
Thanks.

4 Replies

Verbose, prolix, long-winded, bombastic, grandiloquent, pompous, pretentious... 😃

Hi Susan,
I think grandiloquent might be what I am looking for. Thanks.
Most of the other words just express the idea of using too many words.

How about bombastic and pompous?

Thanks Beatrix.
Bombastic and Pompous are also very close to what she is looking for.