empty words

USAGE SUMMARY

'empty words' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when someone has said something that has no real meaning or value. For example: "His apology was just empty words; it did nothing to make the situation any better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Empty words?

The New York Times

But they're empty words.

The Guardian - Sport

It seems like empty words".

The Guardian

These were not empty words.

The Guardian - Opinion

"That's all empty words," Li said.

The New Yorker

Yet these may not be empty words.

The Guardian

The "responsibility to protect" should not be empty words.

The New York Times

Don't fill dead air time with empty words.

The New York Times

Vive la science!" they don't sound like empty words.

The Guardian

Without interest, it's just a bunch of empty words.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Second, it gives some meaning to otherwise-empty words about fair sharing of the pain.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "empty words" when you want to criticize statements that lack substance or sincerity. It's effective for conveying disappointment or skepticism about someone's claims or promises.

Common error

Avoid combining "empty words" with other vague terms, which can weaken your writing. Instead of saying something like "the politician's speech was full of empty words and meaningless rhetoric", focus on specific examples of their insincerity or lack of concrete proposals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "empty words" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object or complement in a sentence. It describes utterances that lack substance, sincerity, or genuine meaning. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is generally grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "empty words" is a frequently used noun phrase that describes statements lacking substance or sincerity. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and widely used. Predominantly found in News & Media, its communicative purpose involves expressing criticism or skepticism. While adaptable to various contexts, it is advisable to avoid combining it with other vague language to maintain clarity and impact. Alternatives such as "hollow promises" or "meaningless words" offer nuanced ways to convey similar sentiments. When aiming to highlight insincerity or lack of genuine commitment, "empty words" serves as a versatile and effective expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meaningless words

Highlights the absence of significance or purpose in the spoken words.

lip service

Highlights the act of expressing support or agreement without genuine action or commitment.

hollow promises

Focuses on the insincerity and unlikelihood of fulfillment in the promises made.

insincere platitudes

Emphasizes the lack of genuine feeling behind the common expressions.

false assurances

Focuses on the deceptive nature of the comforting statements given.

worthless rhetoric

Stresses the ineffectiveness and lack of value in the persuasive language used.

shallow utterances

Emphasizes the lack of depth and thoughtfulness in the expressed words.

vain declarations

Highlights the futility and emptiness of the statements made.

empty gestures

Shifts the focus from words to actions that lack sincerity or real impact.

idle chatter

Suggests trivial and unimportant conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "empty words" in a sentence?

You can use "empty words" to describe statements that lack sincerity or substance. For example, "His apology felt like "empty words" because he didn't take any responsibility for his actions."

What are some alternatives to "empty words"?

Alternatives include phrases like "hollow promises", "meaningless words", or "insincere platitudes", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "empty words" or "hollow words"?

"Empty words" and "hollow words" are quite similar, but "empty words" generally emphasizes a lack of substance or genuine feeling, while "hollow words" might suggest a deeper sense of insincerity or deceit. Choose the one that best fits the context.

What is the difference between "empty words" and "insincere words"?

"Empty words" suggests a lack of meaning or genuine feeling, while "insincere words" directly implies dishonesty or a lack of truthfulness. "Insincere words" carry a stronger connotation of deliberate deception.