PROLIXITY Meaning and
Definition
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Prolixity is a noun that refers to the tendency to use an excess of words or to be unnecessarily lengthy in one's speech or writing. It is derived from the Latin word "prolixus," meaning extended or lengthy.
In the realm of communication and expression, prolixity is often considered an undesirable quality. It occurs when individuals stretch out their discourse, elaborating on points that could be explained more concisely and succinctly. This verbose style is often seen as tedious and can lead to reader or listener fatigue. Prolixity can result in a lack of precision and clarity since the essential message may become obscured by the excess of superfluous information.
The use of prolixity can also arise from a desire to impress or demonstrate one's knowledge, which may inadvertently weaken the intended impact. Excessive verbosity can cause the audience to lose interest or become distracted, ultimately diminishing the effectiveness of the message being conveyed.
Prolixity is often contrasted with brevity, where fewer words are used to convey the same message, resulting in a more focused and impactful communication style. Effective communication requires striking a delicate balance between providing enough information to convey the intended meaning and not overwhelming the audience with unnecessary details.
In summary, prolixity refers to the excessive use of words or being overly long-winded in speaking or writing. It is often considered a negative quality as it can lead to confusion, boredom, and a loss of impact in conveying one's message.
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The state or quality of being prolix; great length; minute detail; tediousness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PROLIXITY
Etymology of PROLIXITY
The word "prolixity" comes from the Latin word "prolixitas", which is derived from the adjective "prolixus". In Latin, "prolixus" means "extended" or "drawn out". The prefix "pro-", in this case, signifies "forward" or "forth", and "lixus" refers to "flowing" or "streaming". Therefore, "prolixity" can be interpreted as the state or quality of being excessively lengthy or long-winded in speech or writing.
Similar spelling words for PROLIXITY
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