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CEFR C2 — Proficiency

Sesquipedalian

Definition

(formal, literary) Given to using long words, often in an affected or pretentious way; characterized by the use of words that are overly long or complicated. Typically used to describe writing or speech that prioritizes complexity over clarity.

Example Sentences

1The professor's sesquipedalian language made his lectures notoriously difficult to follow, despite his brilliance in the field.
2Is there a place for sesquipedalian writing in modern literature, or does it merely serve to alienate readers?
3Her sesquipedalian vocabulary was impressive, but it often led her to use words that were unfamiliar to her audience.
4Avoid sesquipedalian language in your academic writing; clarity and concision are usually more effective than complexity.
5There is a fine line between using complex vocabulary to convey nuanced ideas and indulging in sesquipedalian posturing for its own sake.

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