Pro·lix′, a.
(114) (Synop., § 130), a. [Lat. prolixus, extended, long, from pro, before, forward, and laxus, loose, wide; Fr. prolixe, Pr. prolix, Pg. prolixo, Sp. prolijo, It. prolisso.]
- Extending to a great length; minute in narration or argument; long; — used only with reference to discourse written or spoken; as, a prolix oration; a prolix poem; a prolix sermon.
- Indulging in protracted discourse; tedious; wearisome; — applied to a speaker or writer.
Syn. — Long; diffuse; prolonged; protracted; tedious; tiresome; wearisome. — PROLIX, DIFFUSE. A prolix writer delights in circumlocution, extended detail, and trifling particulars. A diffuse writer is fond of amplifying, and abounds in epithets, figures, and illustrations. Diffuseness often arises from an exuberance of imagination; prolixity is almost always connected with a want of it. Prolixity is one of the worst qualities of style; diffuseness is not necessarily a fault, but requires uncommon genius to relieve it from being wearisome. Should I at large repeat The bead-roll of her vicious tricks, My poem would be too prolix. Prior. A sentiment which is expressed diffusely will barely be admitted to be just; expressed concisely, will be admired as spirited. Blair.