Exaggeration Meaning and Definition
Exaggeration
Pronunciation
/ɛks.ægˈrɑː.sən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A statement or representation that is overstated or inaccurate, often used to convey a stronger impression or to gain attention.
Examples
- His exaggerated claims about his accomplishments raised skepticism among potential investors.
- The politician’s speech was full of exaggerations and empty promises.
- She loved to exaggerate the size of the fish she caught on her fishing trips.
- The news report was full of exaggerations and lacked credible sources.
Synonyms
- Hyperbole
- Fabrication
- Bias
Antonyms
- Accuracy
- Objectivity
- Truthfulness
Additional Information
Exaggeration is often used intentionally to emphasize a point or to entertain, but it can also be a harmful tactic used to deceive or manipulate others. When consumed in excess, exaggerated information can lead to misinformation and confusion. Effective communication often relies on accurate and clear language, which can help build trust and credibility.
Exaggeration can take many forms, including statements that are falsely magnified, distorted, or misrepresented. It can also involve omitting or hiding important information to create a misleading impression. In extreme cases, exaggeration can be related to fabrications, lies, or propaganda.
Etymology
The word “exaggeration” originates from the Latin term “exaggerare,” meaning “to enlarge” or “to increase.” This term is derived from the words “ex” (meaning “out” or “from”) and “aggerare” (meaning “to increase” or “to make large”).
Usage Notes
When using the word “exaggeration,” it’s essential to provide context to avoid misinterpretation. Providing concrete evidence or counterarguments can help to clarify the issue and establish accuracy. It’s also crucial to recognize that exaggeration can take many forms and can be intentional or unintentional.
Cultural References
Exaggeration has been depicted in popular culture in various forms, such as exaggerated movie characters, satire and parody, and even in music and comedy.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “exaggeration” include “don’t exaggerate,” “exaggerating the truth,” and “it’s an exaggeration.”
Related Words or Phrases
Words or phrases closely related to “exaggeration” include “bias,” “fabrication,” “hyperbole,” “lie,” “misrepresentation,” and “propaganda.”
Collocations
Common word combinations with the term “exaggeration” include “a little exaggeration,” “an exaggeration of the truth,” and “exaggeration of facts.”
Frequency of Use
The word “exaggeration” is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in discussions about politics, media, and advertising.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of the word “exaggeration” include “exageration,” “exagerate,” and “exageret.”