Words / C2

EP-igr-am/ˈepɪɡræm/

An epigram is a short, witty, and memorable remark, often with a twist: a political epigram, speak in epigrams. A motto (already in the dictionary) is a short guiding phrase; an aphorism (already in the dictionary) is a pithy general truth, and a bromide (already in the dictionary) is a dull conventional remark — the tired cousin. Bombast (already in the dictionary) is pompous empty swell. Wit about “agile delivery” does not license unpublished exam times.

Meaning

A short, witty, and memorable remark, often with a twist.

Examples

• “An epigram about “agile delivery” does not license unpublished exam times.”
• “A motto is a short guiding phrase (already in B2). An aphorism is a pithy truth (already in C2). A bromide is a tired commonplace (already in C2). Bombast is pompous empty language (already in C2). A short true sentence can still be presentable. A twist that never states the embargo is theatre. Write the time; then the wit.”

Good to know

A short witty pointed remark. Everyday-close: motto (already in B2). Close: aphorism (already in C2). Contrast: bromide (already in C2); bombast (already in C2). Wit ≠ an embargo.

Near in meaning

witticism, quip, aphorism, bon mot

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