Words / C2

PROHL-iks/ˈprəʊlɪks/

Prolix means tediously lengthy and wordy (formal / disapproving): a prolix preface, prolix minutes. Long (already in the dictionary) is everyday not short; lengthy (already in the dictionary) is very long, often too long, and verbose (already in the dictionary) is using more words than needed — the close twin. Tedious (already in the dictionary) is boringly long or slow. Laconic, succinct, and terse (already in the dictionary) are the opposite flavour of few words. This batch: sesquipedalian is given to very long words. A preface is not a sample-size sentence.

Meaning

Tediously lengthy and wordy (formal / disapproving).

Examples

• “A prolix preface is not a sample-size sentence.”
• “Long is not short (already in A1). Lengthy is too long (already in B1). Verbose is wordy (already in C2). Tedious is boringly long or slow (already in C1). Laconic is very brief (already in C2). Succinct is short and clear (already in C2). Terse is abruptly brief (already in C2) — the contrast. Sesquipedalian is given to long words (this batch). A short true sentence can still be presentable. Length that never states the n is branding. Write the number; then the swell.”

Good to know

Tediously wordy (formal). Everyday: long (already in this dictionary). Close: lengthy (already in B1); verbose (already in C2); tedious (already in C1). Contrast: laconic / succinct / terse (already in C2). This batch: sesquipedalian. Length ≠ an n.

Near in meaning

verbose, long-winded, wordy, diffuse

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