Definition
Overly grandiose and showy in speech or behavior
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
grandiose, pretentious, overblown, showy, flamboyant, excessive
Antonyms
modest, unassuming, understated, simple, humble
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | bombast, bombasts |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | bombastic |
| Adverb | bombastically |
Example Sentences
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The bombastic politician, with his grandiose promises and exaggerated claims, captivated the audience with his theatrics but failed to deliver on substantial policies.
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The bombastic writer filled her novel with flowery language and extravagant metaphors, sacrificing clarity for ostentatious prose.
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His bombastic speech, filled with pompous declarations and self-aggrandizement, drew both applause and eye rolls from the audience.
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The bombastic CEO, known for his flamboyant style and excessive self-promotion, prioritized image over substance, leading to a decline in the company’s credibility.
Usage
The word “bombastic” traces its origins to the Latin term “bombus,” meaning “a booming sound” or “loud noise.” It evolved over time to describe speech or writing that is excessively grandiose, pretentious, or inflated. “Bombastic” is an adjective that denotes a style characterized by showiness, exaggeration, or the use of extravagant language to impress or intimidate.
The suffix “-tic” in “bombastic” signifies a tendency or inclination toward a particular quality or characteristic. The root “bomb-” conveys the sense of a loud or exaggerated sound. This combination captures the essence of bombastic speech or writing, which often involves the use of exaggerated and inflated language for dramatic effect.
The usage of “bombastic” is typically associated with criticism of speech or writing that is deemed overly flamboyant or pompous. It is often used to describe individuals who use excessive adjectives, flowery metaphors, or lengthy, convoluted sentences to create an impression of importance or authority. In essence, “bombastic” reflects a style of expression that aims to captivate or awe through the use of exaggerated and bombastic rhetoric.
Variations of the word “bombastic” include the noun form “bombast,” which refers to the inflated or extravagant language itself, and the adverb form “bombastically,” describing actions or behaviors that are characterized by bombast.
Understanding the history and usage of “bombastic” sheds light on the importance of clarity, conciseness, and sincerity in communication. It serves as a reminder to seek authentic expression rather than relying on excessive embellishment or empty grandeur to make an impact.