Understanding the Distinct Proper Usage of Verbiage and the Common Mistake of Verbage

Understanding the Distinct Proper Usage of Verbiage and the Common Mistake of Verbage

Difference Between Verbage and Verbiage

Today, let’s learn about two words that sound almost the same: verbage and verbiage. These words are often mixed up, but they have different meanings. Let’s see how they are different!

History of the Words

Verbiage is the correct term that has been used for a long time. It comes from the French word verbiage, meaning a way of speaking or writing that uses too many words. Verbage is often used by mistake instead of verbiage and is not a proper word in English.

How to Use the Words

Verbiage is used when talking about speech or writing that has a lot of words, often more than needed. Verbage is a misspelling and should not be used.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember the difference, think of the letter “i” in verbiage as the “i” in idea. Our ideas sometimes have a lot of words, so we use verbiage. Remember, verbage is not the right word to use!

Examples of Verbiage in Sentences

• The teacher said my essay had too much verbiage.
• Can you trim down the verbiage in your speech?
• His letter was full of verbiage and hard to understand.
• The contract’s verbiage made it difficult to read.
• She removed the extra verbiage from her story.

Examples of Verbage in Sentences

Since verbage is not a correct word, it should not be used in sentences. Always use verbiage.

Summary of Usage

In summary, remember that verbiage is the correct word to use when talking about too many words. Verbage is an incorrect form and should be avoided in writing and speaking. Always use verbiage for proper communication.