prolix

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective prolix differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of prolix are diffuse, verbose, and wordy. While all these words mean "using more words than necessary to express thought," prolix suggests unreasonable and tedious dwelling on details.

habitually transformed brief anecdotes into prolix sagas

When might diffuse be a better fit than prolix?

The words diffuse and prolix are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, diffuse stresses lack of compactness and pointedness of style.

diffuse memoirs that are so many shaggy-dog stories

Where would verbose be a reasonable alternative to prolix?

The synonyms verbose and prolix are sometimes interchangeable, but verbose suggests a resulting dullness, obscurity, or lack of incisiveness or precision.

the verbose position papers

In what contexts can wordy take the place of prolix?

The words wordy and prolix can be used in similar contexts, but wordy may also imply loquaciousness or garrulity.

a wordy speech

Podcast

Thesaurus Entries Near prolix

Cite this Entry

“Prolix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prolix. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!