Polysyllabic describes a word or language with multiple syllables. This characteristic contrasts with monosyllabic words, having only one syllable. The term can also describe speech or writing that extensively uses long words, sometimes perceived as elaborate or even pretentious. Lengthy words with numerous syllables are generally regarded as polysyllabic, adding complexity and often requiring more time and effort to pronounce and understand compared to their shorter counterparts. The choice of using polysyllabic vocabulary often influences the overall tone and register of communication, potentially making it more formal, academic, or sophisticated.
Polysyllabic meaning with examples
- The professor's lectures were packed with polysyllabic terminology, leaving many students struggling to take notes. Understanding the complex concepts required deciphering numerous long words. His speech was a blend of scientific jargon. Students often requested simpler explanations. Though the professor's knowledge was profound, the polysyllabic words sometimes hindered effective communication and made learning more difficult for some.
- The legal document's polysyllabic prose, filled with complex clauses and convoluted sentences, was difficult for the average person to comprehend. Even the lawyers admitted it was tedious. Each section relied on multiple long words. They were very common. The extensive use of long words and compound structures added legal clarity but it obscured the simple truth.
- The author's penchant for using polysyllabic words created a rich, layered narrative but also made the novel challenging for some readers. Each paragraph contained numerous long words. The writing's deliberate choice of words was part of their craft. While some critics found the style pretentious, others appreciated its density and complexity, a stark contrast to more common easy prose.
- The translator faced a daunting task when rendering the lengthy and polysyllabic phrases of the original text into a more accessible language for a wider audience. She realized many of the complex words had multiple meanings. His objective was simple but its length would take time. The goal was to maintain accuracy while simplifying some of the polysyllabic passages.
- The politician, known for his eloquent speeches, incorporated strategic polysyllabic vocabulary during his addresses to enhance his credibility. His speeches, known for their length, and used many large words. He knew his audience expected sophistication. This deliberate use aimed at impressing the audience and projecting an image of intelligence, carefully crafting a complex, formal tone.
Polysyllabic Synonyms
complex long-worded multisyllabic sesquipedalian verbosePolysyllabic Antonyms
concise monosyllabic short simple tersePolysyllabic Crossword Answers
14 Letters
SESQUIPEDALIAN