Verbiage vs Wording: When To Use Each One? What To Consider

When it comes to communication, the words we use matter. However, there is often confusion between the terms “verbiage” and “wording.” Which of these two is the proper word to use? In fact, both have their place in the English language.

Verbiage refers to an excessive use of words or language that is unnecessarily complex or difficult to understand. On the other hand, wording refers to the specific words or phrasing used to express an idea or concept.

In this article, we will explore the differences between verbiage and wording, and how they can impact communication. By understanding these distinctions, you can improve your ability to communicate effectively and efficiently.

Define Verbiage

Verbiage is a term used to describe language that is excessive, wordy, and often difficult to understand. It refers to the use of too many words to express an idea, resulting in a convoluted and confusing message. Verbiage can be seen as a form of communication that is inefficient and ineffective, as it often fails to convey the intended meaning to the audience.

Verbiage can take many forms, including long-winded speeches, complex legal documents, and verbose emails. It is often used by individuals who are trying to sound more intelligent or authoritative than they actually are, or who are attempting to conceal their lack of knowledge on a particular subject.

Define Wording

Wording, on the other hand, refers to the specific choice of words used to convey a message. It is the way in which words are arranged and combined to create meaning, and it is an essential component of effective communication.

Wording can be used to evoke certain emotions in the reader or listener, to persuade them to take a particular action, or to convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. It is often used in advertising, marketing, and political campaigns to create a specific impression or to influence the audience’s perception of a particular product or idea.

Wording can also be used to create a sense of urgency or importance, as well as to establish credibility and trust with the audience. It is an essential tool for writers, speakers, and communicators of all kinds, as it allows them to convey their message in a way that is both clear and impactful.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Choosing the right words for your writing can make a significant difference in how your message is received. Two words that are often used interchangeably are verbiage and wording. However, there is a subtle difference between the two that can affect the clarity of your writing. Here’s how to use each word properly in a sentence.

How To Use Verbiage In A Sentence

Verbiage refers to an excess of words used to express something, often resulting in unnecessary complexity or confusion. To use verbiage in a sentence, consider the following:

• Avoid using long, convoluted sentences that make it difficult for the reader to understand your message.
• Use simple, concise language to convey your ideas clearly.
• Eliminate any unnecessary words or phrases that do not add value to your writing.
• Consider the audience and purpose of your writing. If you are writing for a technical audience, you may need to use more specialized language. However, if you are writing for a general audience, keep your language simple and straightforward.

Here’s an example of using verbiage in a sentence:

“The proposal contained a lot of unnecessary verbiage, making it difficult to understand the main points.”

How To Use Wording In A Sentence

Wording refers to the specific choice of words used to convey a message. To use wording in a sentence, consider the following:

• Choose words that accurately reflect the meaning you are trying to convey.
• Consider the connotations of the words you choose. Some words may have different meanings or associations depending on the context in which they are used.
• Use active voice instead of passive voice to make your writing more engaging and direct.
• Consider the tone you want to convey. The same message can be expressed in different ways depending on the tone you choose.

Here’s an example of using wording in a sentence:

“The wording of the contract was ambiguous, leading to confusion about the rights and responsibilities of each party.”

More Examples Of Verbiage & Wording Used In Sentences

Verbiage and wording are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. Verbiage refers to the excessive use of words, while wording refers to the specific choice of words used to convey a message. Here are some examples of how these terms can be used in sentences:

Examples Of Using Verbiage In A Sentence

• The verbiage in his speech was so excessive that it was difficult to understand his main point.
• She used so much verbiage in her email that it took me twice as long to read it.
• The contract was filled with legal verbiage that made it hard for the average person to comprehend.
• His essay was filled with unnecessary verbiage, which made it seem like he was trying to sound smarter than he actually was.
• The politician’s verbiage was so convoluted that it was hard to tell what he was actually proposing.
• The marketing brochure was filled with verbiage that made the product seem more complicated than it actually was.
• Her presentation was filled with verbiage, which made it difficult for the audience to stay engaged.
• The CEO’s memo was filled with verbiage, which made it hard for employees to understand the company’s new policies.
• He used so much verbiage in his article that it was hard to tell what his main argument was.
• The legal document was filled with verbiage that made it hard for the jury to understand the case.

Examples Of Using Wording In A Sentence

• The wording of the contract was clear and concise, making it easy for both parties to understand their obligations.
• She carefully chose her wording in the email to avoid offending her boss.
• The wording of the advertisement was so persuasive that it convinced me to buy the product.
• His wording in the speech was so powerful that it moved the entire audience to tears.
• The politician’s wording was so precise that it left no room for misinterpretation.
• The marketing team spent hours perfecting the wording of the tagline for their new product.
• Her wording in the presentation was so effective that it convinced the investors to fund her project.
• The lawyer’s wording in the closing argument was so compelling that it swayed the jury’s decision.
• He carefully considered his wording in the article to ensure that his argument was clear and concise.
• The wording of the company’s mission statement was so inspiring that it motivated employees to work harder.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using language effectively, it’s important to understand the nuances between similar words. Verbiage and wording are two such words that are often used interchangeably, but this is a mistake. Here are some common mistakes people make when using verbiage and wording interchangeably, and why they are incorrect:

Using Verbiage When You Mean Wording

Verbiage is often used to refer to excessive or unnecessary words, but this is not its only meaning. Verbiage can also refer to the manner in which something is expressed, including the choice of words used. However, it is more commonly used to refer to the amount of words used, rather than the specific words chosen. Using verbiage when you mean wording can lead to confusion, as the listener or reader may interpret your message as being unnecessarily long-winded or convoluted.

Using Wording When You Mean Verbiage

On the other hand, wording refers specifically to the choice of words used to express a message. Using wording when you mean verbiage can lead to a lack of clarity in your message, as the listener or reader may not understand the intended meaning due to the specific words used.

Offering Vague Or Ambiguous Verbiage

Another common mistake is offering vague or ambiguous verbiage. This can occur when using too many words to express a simple idea, or when using words that are not specific enough to convey the intended meaning. This can lead to confusion and a lack of understanding on the part of the listener or reader.

Offering Overly Technical Wording

Similarly, offering overly technical wording can also be a mistake. While technical language may be appropriate in certain contexts, using it unnecessarily can lead to confusion and a lack of understanding on the part of the listener or reader. It’s important to use language that is appropriate for the intended audience, and to avoid using technical language unless it is necessary.

Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes

To avoid these common mistakes, it’s important to be clear about the intended meaning of your message, and to choose your words carefully. Here are some tips for avoiding these mistakes:

• Be clear about the intended meaning of your message before you start writing or speaking.
• Choose your words carefully to ensure that they convey the intended meaning.
• Avoid using overly technical language unless it is necessary.
• Use simple, clear language that is appropriate for the intended audience.
• Proofread your work carefully to ensure that it is clear and concise.

Context Matters

Choosing between verbiage and wording can depend on the context in which they are used. The context can determine the tone, formality, and clarity of the message conveyed.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Consider the following examples of different contexts and how the choice between verbiage and wording might change:

Academic Writing

In academic writing, the choice between verbiage and wording can depend on the requirements of the assignment, the target audience, and the subject matter. For instance, a research paper on a technical subject may require the use of specialized terminology and complex verbiage to accurately convey the ideas. In contrast, a humanities paper may require more creative and expressive wording to convey the author’s ideas and emotions.

Business Communication

In business communication, the choice between verbiage and wording can depend on the purpose of the message, the audience, and the level of formality required. For instance, a formal business letter may require the use of precise and concise wording to convey a professional tone. In contrast, a marketing email may require the use of persuasive verbiage to entice the reader to take action.

Casual Conversation

In casual conversation, the choice between verbiage and wording can depend on the social context, the relationship between the speakers, and the purpose of the conversation. For instance, a conversation between friends may involve the use of slang and informal wording to convey a sense of familiarity and camaraderie. In contrast, a conversation between strangers may require the use of more formal verbiage and wording to establish rapport and avoid misunderstandings.

Ultimately, the choice between verbiage and wording depends on the context in which they are used. By considering the purpose, audience, and tone of the message, the writer or speaker can choose the most appropriate language to effectively convey their ideas and achieve their desired outcome.

Exceptions To The Rules

While there are general guidelines for when to use verbiage and wording, there are exceptions to the rules. Here are some instances where the rules might not apply:

1. Legal Documents

Legal documents often require the use of specific verbiage to ensure accuracy and avoid ambiguity. For example, contracts and agreements may use legal jargon to clearly define terms and conditions. In this case, using plain wording could lead to misunderstandings or legal disputes.

2. Technical Writing

Technical writing, such as user manuals and scientific papers, may require the use of specialized terminology and complex language. This is because technical writing is often intended for a specific audience with a certain level of knowledge or expertise. Using simple wording could lead to confusion or a lack of precision.

3. Marketing And Advertising

In marketing and advertising, the goal is to capture the audience’s attention and persuade them to take a desired action. This often involves the use of creative and persuasive language, rather than plain wording. For example, a slogan such as “Just Do It” is more effective than simply saying “Take Action.”

4. Personal Communication

In personal communication, the rules for using verbiage and wording may not apply as strictly. This is because personal communication is often more informal and relaxed. For example, in a text message to a friend, it may be more appropriate to use casual language and slang rather than formal verbiage.

It’s important to note that these exceptions do not mean that the rules for using verbiage and wording should be ignored altogether. Rather, they highlight the importance of considering the context and purpose of the communication when deciding whether to use verbiage or wording.

Practice Exercises

Improving one’s understanding and use of verbiage and wording in sentences requires consistent practice. To help readers achieve this, here are some practice exercises:

Exercise 1: Verbiage Or Wording?

Sentence	Verbiage or Wording?
The verbiage used in this report is too technical.	Verbiage
The wording of the contract is confusing.	Wording
Her verbiage was so flowery that I couldn’t understand what she meant.	Verbiage
The wording of the instructions was clear and concise.	Wording

Answer Key: 1) Verbiage, 2) Wording, 3) Verbiage, 4) Wording

Exercise 2: Rewrite The Verbiage

Read the following sentence and rewrite it using simpler wording:

“The verbiage utilized in the legal document is excessively convoluted.”

Example answer: “The wording used in the legal document is too complicated.”

Exercise 3: Identify The Tone

Read the following sentence and identify the tone:

“The verbiage in this email is completely inappropriate.”

Example answer: Negative

Explanation: The word “inappropriate” suggests a negative tone.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between verbiage and wording, it is clear that these two terms are not interchangeable. Verbiage refers to excessive and unnecessary language, while wording is the specific choice of words used to convey a message. Understanding these distinctions can greatly improve one’s writing and communication skills.

Key takeaways from this article include:

1. Verbiage Can Detract From The Effectiveness Of Communication.

Using too many words or overly complex language can confuse and frustrate readers. It is important to be concise and clear in writing to effectively convey a message.

2. Wording Can Greatly Impact The Tone And Meaning Of A Message.

The specific choice of words used can convey different emotions and attitudes. It is important to choose words carefully to accurately convey the intended message.

3. Continual Learning And Improvement In Grammar And Language Use Is Important.

Improving one’s writing and communication skills can greatly enhance personal and professional success. Continual learning and practice can lead to more effective communication and better relationships with others.

Overall, understanding the differences between verbiage and wording is an important step in improving one’s writing and communication skills. By being mindful of language use and continually learning and improving, individuals can greatly enhance their communication abilities.