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diffuse

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective diffuse differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of diffuse are prolix, verbose, and wordy. While all these words mean "using more words than necessary to express thought," diffuse stresses lack of compactness and pointedness of style.

diffuse memoirs that are so many shaggy-dog stories

When would prolix be a good substitute for diffuse?

The meanings of prolix and diffuse largely overlap; however, prolix suggests unreasonable and tedious dwelling on details.

habitually transformed brief anecdotes into prolix sagas

When is verbose a more appropriate choice than diffuse?

While the synonyms verbose and diffuse are close in meaning, verbose suggests a resulting dullness, obscurity, or lack of incisiveness or precision.

the verbose position papers

Where would wordy be a reasonable alternative to diffuse?

Although the words wordy and diffuse have much in common, wordy may also imply loquaciousness or garrulity.

a wordy speech

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of diffuse
Adjective
Dragonfly 44 and its ilk are known as ultra-diffuse galaxies (UDGs). Lyndie Chiou, Quanta Magazine, 7 Nov. 2022 First, there are two ultra-diffuse galaxies that appear to be satellite members of a massive group dominated by NGC 1052: DF2 and DF4. Ethan Siegel, Forbes, 22 June 2021
Verb
Sometimes, humor is the best tool to diffuse heated situations. Angela Haupt, TIME, 28 Oct. 2024 When a wave strikes, its energy gets diffused into these gaps, and further spent on the jagged, complex surfaces of the oysters. Saqib Rahim, WIRED, 11 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for diffuse 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for diffuse
Adjective
  • There is more than 178 feet of beach and ocean frontage, which can be accessed via a rambling wooden staircase.
    Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 5 Nov. 2024
  • Some, of course, will find this style of writing off-putting and too rambling or the prose verging on purple, the narrative perhaps not story-driven enough.
    Erik Kain, Forbes, 10 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • North Korean soldiers were dispersed in Vladivostok, as well as other far eastern cities of Ussuriysk, Khabarovsk and Blagoveshchensk for training last month, according to the NIS.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
  • Each dot represents five voters for a particular candidate, and they are randomly dispersed throughout the precinct (in other words, the dot does not represent the exact address where the voters live).
    Kunle Falayi, The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Like any good network soap, Grey’s loves to torture us with exaggerated teaser clips.
    Laura Bradley, Vulture, 15 Nov. 2024
  • Because of the same exaggerated respect for states, each elects two of the 100 senators.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams dispelled notions that the machine's malfunction could indicate election malfeasance in a statement made on social media.
    Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 31 Oct. 2024
  • Aiming to dispel false rumors from MAGA supporters that the former prosecutor cannot speak without a teleprompter and colludes with media outlets to get questions in advance, Harris has adopted a more aggressive media schedule in recent weeks.
    Natasha Dye, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Those born under the Gemini zodiac sign are said to be talkative, outgoing and adaptable.
    Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 18 June 2024
  • Crying babies and talkative couples aside, the sound of the plane’s engine alone can be enough to make in-flight naps feel impossible.
    Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • But a perennial desire for the macabre doesn’t just dissipate under the umbrella of good intentions.
    Sarah Weinman, The Atlantic, 31 Oct. 2024
  • However, that drama quickly dissipated with the unexpected withdrawal of the No. 27 truck from Reaume Brothers Racing, piloted by team owner Josh Reaume.
    Nina Turner, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Furthermore, leaders must be transparent and communicative throughout the ERP implementation process.
    Miguel Llorca, Forbes, 9 Sep. 2024
  • Be clear and communicative about what turns you on.
    Lexi Petronis, Glamour, 10 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • That's when the moon won't interfere with the display and the Taurus constellation, which is where the meteors seem to emerge – or radiate, according to Earth Sky, a website devoted to astronomy and Earth sciences.
    Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 4 Nov. 2024
  • Sonoma and Napa Vineyards That Set the Stage For The Music And Wine Festival The wineries of Northern California offer a stunning backdrop for SIP events, each radiating its unique charm and inviting atmosphere, captivating visitors from all backgrounds.
    Noel Burgess, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near diffuse

Cite this Entry

“Diffuse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/diffuse. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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