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melodramatic

Q: How is the word 'melodramatic' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of melodramatic are dramatic , histrionic , and theatrical . While all these words mean "having a character or an effect like that of acted plays," melodramatic suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism. // made a melodramatic plea

Q: When is 'dramatic' a more appropriate choice than 'melodramatic'?

The words dramatic and melodramatic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dramatic applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply. // a dramatic meeting of world leaders

Q: When might 'histrionic' be a better fit than 'melodramatic'?

While the synonyms histrionic and melodramatic are close in meaning, histrionic applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess. // a histrionic show of grief

Q: When can 'theatrical' be used instead of 'melodramatic'?

While in some cases nearly identical to melodramatic , theatrical implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression. // a theatrical oration

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Synonyms & Antonyms of melodramatic

1 given to or marked by attention-getting behavior suggestive of stage acting

our office drama queen yet again made the melodramatic declaration that he couldn't take it anymore and was quitting

Synonyms for melodramatic

Words Related to melodramatic

Near Antonyms for melodramatic

Antonyms for melodramatic

undramatic

2 having the general quality or effect of a stage performance

he gave his usual melodramatic speech that he had learned his lesson and thereafter would always pay his bills on time

Synonyms for melodramatic

Words Related to melodramatic

overdramatic

Near Antonyms for melodramatic

Antonyms for melodramatic

undramatic

Frequently Asked Questions About melodramatic

How is the word melodramatic distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of melodramatic are dramatic, histrionic, and theatrical. While all these words mean "having a character or an effect like that of acted plays," melodramatic suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism.

made a melodramatic plea

When is dramatic a more appropriate choice than melodramatic?

The words dramatic and melodramatic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dramatic applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply.

a dramatic meeting of world leaders

When might histrionic be a better fit than melodramatic?

While the synonyms histrionic and melodramatic are close in meaning, histrionic applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess.

a histrionic show of grief

When can theatrical be used instead of melodramatic?

While in some cases nearly identical to melodramatic, theatrical implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression.

a theatrical oration