Überformulierung

Überformulierung, a German term, translates to "over-formulation" or "over-wording" in English. It refers to the act of expressing an idea or concept using unnecessarily complex, verbose, or convoluted language. This can manifest in various forms, including the excessive use of jargon, the deployment of overly long sentences, the repetition of synonymous phrases, or the employment of elaborate circumlocutions when a simpler expression would suffice.

The effect of Überformulierung is often a reduction in clarity and accessibility. Instead of conveying information effectively, it can obscure the intended meaning, making it difficult for the reader or listener to grasp the core message. This can be frustrating for the audience and may lead to misunderstandings. While sometimes intentional to create a specific stylistic effect or to appear more learned, Überformulierung is generally considered a stylistic flaw in clear communication. It contrasts with conciseness and directness, aiming for elegance or precision but often achieving the opposite. Identifying and avoiding Überformulierung is a key aspect of effective writing and speaking, emphasizing that the most impactful communication is often the simplest.