Definition

A person who skillfully combines words or phrases, often without much thought or meaning behind them.

Example

The writer was often criticized as a phrasemonger, using fancy language without substance.

Conversation

I met this guy who calls himself a phrasemonger at the café yesterday.

Really? What does he do?

He just loves to string phrases together, but it feels a bit over the top.

Sounds like he’s trying too hard — sometimes simpler is better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phrasemonger → It is formed from "phrase" (from Greek "phrasis", meaning speech or expression) and "monger" (from Old English "mangere", meaning dealer or trader). The word "phrasemonger" refers to someone who deals in phrases, often implying a person who uses language in a superficial or insincere way.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is a 'dealer' ('monger') in 'expressions' ('phrase') — that's why a phrasemonger is someone who trades in phrases.

Visually Confused Words