Is there a word that means "unnecessarily evocative"


What is the word to describe when language should be neutral such as in an encyclopedia entry of scientific text but instead the language is unnecessarily evocative. Is there a word that describes this?


For example use of the word "assasinated" when "murdered" or "shot" might be more appropriate.



Answer



Yes, I'd call what you are describing "lurid:"


lu·rid ˈlo͝orəd/ adjective (of a description) presented in vividly shocking or sensational terms.


Another option is "sensationalistic."


sensationalism [sen-sey-shuh-nl-iz-uh m] noun 1. subject matter, language, or style producing or designed to produce startling or thrilling impressions or to excite and please vulgar taste. 2. the use of or interest in this subject matter, language, or style:


"The cheap tabloids relied on sensationalism to increase their circulation."


Let me know if that helps.


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