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When the use of certain descriptors are continuously used exhaustively that continue to espouse the greatest, best, smartest, strongest, prettiest, etc etc always being the best of something, it is known as _______.

When a person continuously keeps using adjectives that describe something, someone, or themselves as always being the insert superlative.

Words that are, although flattering, actually so overwhelmingly 'over the top' and impossibly based in fact they are examples of _______.

Superlatives, hyperbole, and hyperbolical speech in the extreme!

What I am looking for is the general descriptor of the routinely repeated usage of this extremely over-exaggerated, hyperbolical speech found in one's daily communications.

(Exaggerating or diminishing beyond the fact; exceeding the truth; bordering on delusional)

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  • Not clear what you are asking. Can you rephrase your question and provide a suitable title?
    – Centaurus
    Commented Sep 16, 2016 at 1:05
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    ...are you perhaps referring to the use of superlatives? The descriptors along with comparatives that indicate when one thing is more (-er) or the most (-est) of something, as compared to another? I'm not sure what else your question is asking, sorry, but even that bit of clarification might help.
    – Megha
    Commented Sep 16, 2016 at 1:17
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    Yeah, such terms are usually referred to as "superlatives". Of course, they also tend to provoke a few less polite descriptions.
    – Hot Licks
    Commented Sep 16, 2016 at 1:21
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    Flamboyant? pattern of speech
    – Stu W
    Commented Sep 16, 2016 at 20:58
  • In the future, we will probably have the words trumpism or trumpistry.
    – David Handelman
    Commented Oct 1, 2016 at 1:42

3 Answers 3

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How about bombastic?

bombastic [adj] suggests language with a theatricality or staginess of style far too powerful or declamatory for the meaning or sentiment being expressed

It's often used describe flowery or overly complex language/word choice, but I could see it also applying to dramatic superlative-laden language as well.

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Considering all of the elements of your question and seeking a single word to describe, or name, a person who engages in such outrageous rhetoric, I suggest gonzo. It may not be perfect, but it sounds about right, kind of like bonkers.

From The Free Dictionary:

gonzo adj Slang: Using an exaggerated, highly subjective style; extreme, unconventional, or bizarre; crazy, excited, or unrestrained

gonzo adj: wild or crazy

gonzo n: a wild or crazy person

gonzo adj Slang: fiercely advocative or partial without regard for balance or objectivity

gonzo adj.: conspicuously or grossly unconventional or unusual

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I think I should offer several possibilities. I'll let you do the mixing and matching to fit your sentences.

overdoing it

slightly hysterical

overstating

not understated (this one is the understated choice!)

over the top

Example, what you might provide as feedback about a piece of student writing, or feedback to a friend about a letter draft:

Please tone down your language. You use so many superlatives [fantastic word contributed by others] that your letter ends up sounding a bit hysterical. Aim for a neutral tone.

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