verbalism

[ vur-buh-liz-uhm ]

noun

1. a verbal expression, as a word or phrase.
2. the way in which something is worded; choice of words; phrasing.
3. a phrase or sentence having little or no meaning.
4. a use of words considered as predominating over or obscuring ideas or reality; verbiage.

verbalism

/ ˈvɜːbəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. a verbal expression; phrase or word
2. an exaggerated emphasis on the importance of words by the uncritical acceptance of assertions in place of explanations, the use of rhetorical style, etc
3. a statement lacking real content, esp a cliché

Word History and Origins

Origin of verbalism¹

First recorded in 1780–90; verbal + -ism

Example Sentences

Bad verbalism is rhetoric, or the use of clich unconsciously, or a mere playing with phrases.

From Project Gutenberg

Here we are, then, in the realm of pure verbalism—in the ideal region of signs.

From Project Gutenberg

We may surround the subject with a vague and attractive idealistic verbalism, but we come back to this as a starting point.

From Project Gutenberg

This 'science,' therefore, finally reduces to mere verbalism, distracted by inconsistent relapses into 'psychology.'

From Project Gutenberg

But there is good verbalism, distinct from lyricism or imagism, and in this Laforgue is a master.

From Project Gutenberg