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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

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aphoristic

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "aphoristic" is both correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective which means characterized by or given to the use of brief, pithy, clever, and memorable expressions. For example: "My grandfather was a master of aphoristic wit, able to sum up big ideas with a few clever words."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He became known for the short, aphoristic sayings contained within the four slim volumes of poetry he published in his lifetime, such as the assertion that "Sexual intercourse began/In nineteen sixty-three".

News & Media

The Economist

But to say much that is striking, new or true about those would take aphoristic gifts or an astringency of mind that Mr Manguel does not claim to possess.

News & Media

The Economist

To the end, Strindberg debated current social and political ideas (returning to the radical views of his youth) in polemical articles, while his philosophy was expounded in the aphoristic Zones of the Spirit (1907 12).

Having requested and received a sick leave, Nietzsche in 1877 set up house with his sister and his friend Peter Gast (Johann Heinrich Köselitz), and in 1878 his aphoristic Menschliches, Allzumenschliches (Human, All-Too-Human) appeared.

Typically a pithy, easily memorized aphoristic saying based on experience and universal in application, the mashal in its simplest and oldest form was a couplet in which a definition was given in two parallel lines related to each other either antithetically or synthetically.

His teachings were transmitted by Arrian, his pupil, in two works: Discourses, of which four books are extant; and the Encheiridion, or Manual, a condensed aphoristic version of the main doctrines.

His urbane Epicureanism and personal charm, his aphoristic philosophy and studied perfection won him recognition as Rome's leading poet after the death of his friend Virgil.

The work remains incomplete, so that, in spite of the aphoristic brilliance, or the lyrical power, of many fragments, some of the thinking is enigmatic, incoherent, or even contradictory.

The distinctive feature of his prose and poetry, even when he is dealing with the most abstract of subjects, is sensuousness; his prose is aphoristic and graceful, his poetry rich in natural images and allusions, always classical in form, and, at its best, as sinewy, subtly rhythmical, and melodious as the very best verse of the great dramatist Jean Racine or the Symbolist poet Paul Verlaine.

It is an anthology of basic Buddhist teachings (primarily ethical teachings) in a simple aphoristic style.

The Cello Sonata (1914) marks his first effort to return to more expanded forms following his "aphoristic" period.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for an "aphoristic" style, focus on conveying complex ideas in a brief, memorable way. This often involves distilling information to its core essence and using language that is both precise and evocative.

Common error

Avoid being so brief that your meaning becomes obscure. An "aphoristic" statement should be concise, but still easily understood. Clarity should not be sacrificed for brevity.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

87%

Authority and reliability

4.6/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The adjective "aphoristic" primarily functions to describe a style of communication that is concise, memorable, and full of meaning. Ludwig's examples show it modifying nouns like 'sayings', 'zones', and 'prose', highlighting their brief yet impactful nature. It is often associated with wisdom and insight.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

32%

News & Media

32%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "aphoristic" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective to describe something concise, insightful, and memorable. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability, showcasing numerous examples from reputable sources like encyclopedias and news media. The term is best used to characterize writing or speech that conveys complex ideas in a brief and impactful manner. While appropriate for formal and informal contexts, it is most commonly found in more formal settings, adding a layer of sophistication to the description. To maintain clarity, avoid overly cryptic phrasing and ensure the message remains easily understood.

FAQs

How can I use "aphoristic" in a sentence?

You can use "aphoristic" to describe writing, speech, or thoughts that are concise and full of meaning. For example, "Her writing style is "aphoristic" and insightful."

What words are similar to "aphoristic"?

Similar words include "epigrammatic", "concise", and "pithy".

What is the difference between "aphoristic" and "verbose"?

"Aphoristic" describes something concise and meaningful, while "verbose" describes something excessively wordy. They are antonyms.

Is it appropriate to use "aphoristic" in formal writing?

Yes, "aphoristic" is suitable for formal writing when describing concise and insightful statements, as seen in various news media and encyclopedias.

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Authority and reliability

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: