Speechifying

Speechifying refers to the act of delivering a long, often pompous or overly formal speech, typically with the intent to impress, persuade, or sometimes bore an audience. It often involves rhetorical flourishes, a degree of grandstanding, and can be characterized by a lack of genuine connection with the listeners. The focus is often on the speaker's performance and perceived eloquence rather than the substance or clarity of the message. It might involve the use of overly complex language, excessive ornamentation, and a disregard for audience engagement and understanding. Essentially, speechifying prioritizes style over substance, turning a message into a self-indulgent display.

Speechifying meaning with examples

• The politician’s address was criticized as a prime example of speechifying, filled with empty promises and carefully crafted phrases. It was less about addressing the community's concerns and more about projecting an image of leadership. He spoke for over an hour, and everyone there said it was just speechifying.
• During the wedding reception, the best man launched into a protracted toast, filled with rambling anecdotes and self-congratulatory remarks, which devolved into speechifying. The crowd slowly lost interest as they realized the speech was more about his ego than celebrating the happy couple. It went on so long, many attendees went to the bar to avoid the speechifying.
• Despite the professor's expertise, his lectures often veered into speechifying, using complex jargon and theoretical pronouncements that left many students confused and disengaged. He was speaking more to his own academic peers than teaching. Very few students kept up the required reading due to his speechifying.
• The CEO's quarterly report presentation seemed to be an exercise in speechifying, with carefully rehearsed sound bites and dramatic pauses, designed more to appease shareholders than to offer transparent financial updates. He was just selling the same lies in a new and 'better' suit. Everyone knew it was speechifying, and they just wanted their money back.