Grandiloquent
hardNegative tonegran-DIL-uh-kwunt
adjective
Definition
pompous or inflated in language; using lofty, bombastic speech
Memory hook
GRANDILOQUENT = 'GRAND + ELOQUENT': trying to sound so GRAND and ELOQUENT that it tips over into pompous, puffed-up nonsense.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His grandiloquent speech impressed no one and clarified nothing.”
“The essay's grandiloquent style buried a fairly simple point.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His ______ speech impressed no one and clarified nothing.”
Show answer
grandiloquent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Grandiloquent is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "bombastic" or "pompous" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "plain-spoken".
Related GRE Words
bombastic
High-sounding but with little meaning; inflated or pretentious language
grandiose
Impressive or magnificent but often exaggerated or pretentious
caustic
bitingly sarcastic or sharply critical (also chemically corrosive)
vainglorious
Excessively proud of oneself or one's achievements; boastful
acrimonious
Bitter and sharp in language or tone; caustic
aphoristic
Containing or characterized by aphorisms; concise and memorable
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