meaningless words

USAGE SUMMARY

"meaningless words" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe words or phrases that sound good but have no real value or substance. For example, "The politician's speech was full of meaningless words that failed to address the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Obsessive repetition of meaningless words and phrases.

The New York Times - Tech

He called the American president a liar who promised the Arab world "empty meaningless words".

The New York Times

"There is so much ecumenism that is simply the exchange of meaningless words.

The Guardian

Garlands, flowers, candles, meaningless words — but have we really learnt anything?," asked one columnist in DNA newspaper on Monday.

The New York Times

"These are all horrible words, just, like, meaningless words," she replied, "or they have the wrong meaning.

The New Yorker

An opportunity to make a strong statement against bigotry was met with meaningless words rather than assertive action.

The New York Times

"Edge" is one of those rather meaningless words used at media brainstorming sessions, but almost nowhere else.

The Guardian

"It pained me that on this day, from morning to night, everybody was preoccupied with meaningless words," he said.

The New York Times

"I wasted about two hours of my time listening to meaningless words," retorted a 30-year-old anti-government activist in Damascus who gave his name as Mazen.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Reasonable" is an ambiguous but not a meaningless word.

The New York Times

"Alternative": A breathtakingly meaningless word, the emptiest cultural category imaginable.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing speech or writing, use "meaningless words" to emphasize the lack of substance rather than simply dismissing it as 'wrong'.

Common error

While "meaningless words" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise terms that describe the specific flaw in the language, such as "ambiguous language" or "unsubstantiated claims".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "meaningless words" functions primarily as a descriptive term. It acts as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a linking verb. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "meaningless words" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe language lacking substance or sincerity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it's important to use it judiciously in formal writing, opting for more precise terms when appropriate. Alternatives such as "empty rhetoric" or "hollow phrases" can offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Overall, understanding the function and purpose of "meaningless words" enhances effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

empty words

Highlights the lack of meaning or sincerity in the spoken or written communication.

empty rhetoric

Focuses on the insincerity and lack of genuine intent behind the words.

hollow phrases

Emphasizes the lack of depth and substance in the expressions.

insignificant language

Focuses on the lack of importance or impact of the words used.

shallow remarks

Conveys a lack of depth or thoughtfulness in the comments.

pointless jargon

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and purpose in specialized vocabulary.

nonsensical expressions

Highlights the lack of logical sense in the wording.

idle talk

Suggests casual and unproductive conversation.

futile verbiage

Suggests the words are ineffective and unproductive.

vain utterances

Implies the words are boastful and without real value.

FAQs

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

You can use "meaningless words" to describe rhetoric or communication that lacks substance. For example, "The politician's speech was filled with "meaningless words", offering no real solutions."

What are some synonyms for "meaningless words"?

Alternatives include "empty rhetoric", "hollow phrases", or "empty words". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "meaningless words"?

It's appropriate when you want to express that someone's communication lacks substance, sincerity, or genuine intent. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but consider using more precise language in academic writing.

What's the difference between "meaningless words" and "false promises"?

"Meaningless words" refers to language that lacks substance or clarity, while "false promises" implies a deliberate deception. "False promises" suggest an intention to mislead, whereas "meaningless words" may simply be the result of poor communication or a lack of understanding.