verbal baggage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "verbal baggage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe unnecessary or excessive words or phrases that complicate communication or convey a negative connotation. Example: "In her speech, she had a lot of verbal baggage that made it difficult for the audience to grasp her main point."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If you read this book aloud, what strikes you is its perfect pacing (no excess verbal baggage).

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Baggage fees?

The New York Times - Travel

Emotional baggage.

The New York Times - Arts

Excess baggage.

The Guardian - Music

No baggage.

The Guardian

Verbal abuse.

The New Yorker

Without the baggage.

The New York Times - Sports

Quick, painless baggage collection.

Independent

"Return Baggage," January 12 , 2004

The New Yorker

Next it was baggage.

The Economist

"I mean baggage.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "verbal baggage" sparingly. While the phrase is understandable, prioritize clarity and conciseness in your writing.

Common error

Avoid layering metaphors on top of "verbal baggage". This can lead to convoluted and confusing prose. Choose one effective image and stick with it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verbal baggage" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. It metaphorically represents unnecessary or cumbersome elements in communication. Ludwig AI shows it describes the excess or clutter in speech or writing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "verbal baggage" is a noun phrase used to describe unnecessary or cumbersome elements in communication. According to Ludwig, it functions to criticize excess or complexity in someone's speech or writing, suggesting a need for clarity. While grammatically correct, its usage is rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. Alternative phrases, such as ""linguistic clutter"" or ""communication overload"", can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. While Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, remember to prioritize clarity and conciseness in your own writing and avoid layering metaphors for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Wordiness

A simple way to describe the use of too many words.

Linguistic clutter

Highlights the untidiness and confusion in language.

Communication overload

Focuses on the excess of information being conveyed.

Unnecessary jargon

Emphasizes the use of technical terms that are not needed.

Redundant verbiage

Stresses the repetition and excess in wording.

Excessive detail

Points out the overabundance of specific information.

Unnecessary complexity

Indicates an avoidable level of complication.

Inflated language

Suggests language that is pompous or exaggerated.

Circumlocution

Referring to roundabout or indirect language.

Rambling discourse

Emphasizes the lack of focus and direction in speech or writing.

FAQs

How can I use "verbal baggage" in a sentence?

You can use "verbal baggage" to describe unnecessary or excessive words that complicate communication. For example: "The presentation was bogged down by too much "verbal baggage"".

What's a good alternative to "verbal baggage"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "linguistic clutter", "communication overload", or "wordiness".

Is "verbal baggage" formal or informal?

"Verbal baggage" is generally considered a neutral to slightly informal phrase. It's suitable for many contexts, but avoid it in highly formal or technical writing where precision is paramount.

What does it mean to carry "verbal baggage"?

To carry "verbal baggage" means to have a history of communication patterns or habits that hinder effective or clear expression. It suggests that past words or ways of speaking are creating a burden or obstacle.