Bunkum

Bunkum refers to insincere or empty speech, often used to deceive or mislead. It signifies language that sounds impressive but lacks genuine meaning, truth, or value. It can also describe foolish or absurd ideas or behavior, especially when presented as serious or important. The term suggests a pretentious display of rhetoric, frequently employed in political speeches or public pronouncements, designed to gain applause or support without addressing real issues or offering substance. It's the art of saying a lot while communicating very little, essentially a form of verbal puffery, often intended to obscure the speaker's lack of knowledge or a hidden agenda. The core of Bunkum is its hollowness and deceptive nature, making it a potent tool for manipulation.

Bunkum meaning with examples

• The politician's speech was filled with nothing but Bunkum, promising sweeping changes while offering no concrete plans to achieve them. His flowery language and emotional appeals were designed to distract from the lack of substance, leaving the audience feeling vaguely inspired, but ultimately unconvinced. It's the kind of rhetoric that leaves you wondering what he actually *said* after the speech is over.
• The company's press release was saturated with Bunkum, touting revolutionary advancements without providing any scientific evidence to support their claims. Investors were misled by the use of technical jargon and optimistic predictions. The lack of verifiable data showed a deliberate attempt to inflate its reputation and ultimately lead to a financial disaster for those who believed the hype.
• During the debate, the candidate's arguments turned into a string of Bunkum, cleverly dodging difficult questions and resorting to personal attacks. Her evasive responses and appeals to emotion over logic were designed to deflect scrutiny, and avoid honest discussion of policy, showcasing a pattern of dishonesty and calculated deception. It was just empty and meaningless noise.
• The art critic dismissed the exhibit as a collection of pretentious Bunkum, filled with deliberately obscure works that lacked any genuine artistic merit. The use of complex concepts and terminology was meant to impress, but ultimately failed to convey any depth of meaning to most viewers, further highlighting the work's hollow and superficial nature.