waxing lyrical

USAGE SUMMARY

"waxing lyrical" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is speaking or writing in a very flowery, enthusiastic, or exaggerated way. For example: "He couldn't stop talking and kept waxing lyrical about the beauty of the countryside".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm waxing lyrical," he said.

The Guardian - Business

About Anderson he would be waxing lyrical.

The Guardian - Sport

Sophie continued waxing lyrical about this puritan fantasy.

The Guardian - Travel

They're waxing lyrical about it and they love it.

The Guardian - Film

Nor are they hip young things waxing lyrical about the latest chart sensation.

Independent

Waxing lyrical about his beloved Northern Powerhouse, he said: "I don't know if it will work.

Independent

There's Riva, waxing lyrical about poetry as she pours out the tea.

The Guardian - Film

GEORGE BUSH has been waxing lyrical about education reform since becoming governor of Texas in 1995.

The Economist

Alighting on an unlikely saviour, Mr Leschly began waxing lyrical about Lyme disease.

The Guardian - Business

Arrington stops slightly short of waxing lyrical about AOL, but is clearly a fan.

The Guardian - Tech

But a hangover could not prevent him from waxing lyrical about Brady.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "waxing lyrical" to add color and emphasis to your writing when describing someone speaking enthusiastically and at length. It is particularly effective in journalistic or narrative contexts.

Common error

While "waxing lyrical" can be effective, avoid overusing it in a single piece of writing. Too much figurative language can detract from clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "waxing lyrical" functions as a descriptive idiom, characterizing a manner of speaking or writing. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates an enthusiastic and expressive communication style. The examples illustrate its use in describing individuals who are passionately discussing a subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "waxing lyrical" is a commonly used phrase to describe someone speaking or writing with great enthusiasm and expressiveness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media contexts. While generally appropriate, it may be too informal for highly formal writing. Consider alternatives like "speaking eloquently" or "enthusing about" depending on the desired level of formality. Avoid overusing it to maintain clarity and impact in your writing. The phrase is primarily used to convey the speaker's emotional investment and enthusiasm, painting a vivid picture for the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rhapsodizing about

Similar in tone but perhaps even more intensely enthusiastic and expressive.

enthusing about

More straightforward and less formal way of expressing strong positive feelings.

speaking eloquently

Focuses on the skill and grace of the speech rather than the depth of enthusiasm.

singing the praises of

Figurative expression emphasizing strong approval and admiration.

effusive in praise

Highlights the unrestrained and abundant nature of the praise.

extolling the virtues

Implies a strong endorsement or praise of something specific.

expounding on

Suggests a detailed and thorough explanation, often with a persuasive intent.

gushing over

Implies excessive praise, often in a somewhat superficial manner.

going on about

Suggests a lengthy and perhaps tedious discussion, though not necessarily negative.

pontificating on

Indicates a more authoritative and possibly dogmatic way of speaking.

FAQs

How can I use "waxing lyrical" in a sentence?

You can use "waxing lyrical" to describe someone speaking or writing enthusiastically and at length about a particular topic. For example, "The author was "waxing lyrical" about the beauty of the Italian countryside."

What does it mean to be "waxing lyrical"?

To be "waxing lyrical" means to speak or write in a passionate, enthusiastic, and often elaborate or exaggerated manner about a particular subject. It implies a high degree of enthusiasm and expressiveness.

What are some alternatives to "waxing lyrical"?

Alternatives to "waxing lyrical" include "speaking eloquently", "enthusing about", or "rhapsodizing about". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "waxing lyrical" in formal writing?

While "waxing lyrical" is generally acceptable, it might be too informal for highly formal or academic writing. In those contexts, consider more neutral alternatives like "elaborating on" or "discussing at length."