Pronunciation: [sɛntˈɛnʃəs] (IPA) 
Sententious is spelled with a silent "c" and pronounced /senˈtenʃəs/. The IPA phonetic transcription shows that the "e" is pronounced as "eh" (short e sound) and the "t" has a slight "ch" sound due to the following "i" and "o" vowels. The word means using few words to make a point or being moralistic in speech. It is often used to describe language or writing that is full of pithy sayings or proverbs.
Sententious is an adjective that describes someone who tends to speak briefly and directly, often in a self-righteous or moralizing way. It implies a tendency to deliver short, pointed statements that convey a moral lesson or express a strong opinion. This term is derived from the Latin word “sententia,” meaning “opinion” or “thought.”
A person who is described as "sententious" may have a penchant for offering pithy, moralistic sayings or maxims as a way to summarize their thoughts or condense complex ideas. They may assert their ideas in an authoritative manner, placing emphasis on the perceived correctness or wisdom of their own viewpoint. As a result, their words may come across as didactic or preachy, lacking nuance or subtlety.
In literature or written works, a "sententious" style often involves the use of brief, pointed sentences or aphorisms to convey a deeper meaning or moral message. This tone fosters the impression of the author trying to impart wisdom or share their philosophical insights with readers.
However, it's important to note that the term "sententious" can carry both positive and negative connotations depending on context. While it can describe a concise and insightful writer or speaker, it can also be used to criticize someone for being overly moralizing, pompous, or excessively fond of their own opinions.
Abounding in axioms or maxims; short and pithy in expression; comprising sentences.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "sententious" originated from the Latin word "sententiosus", which itself derives from the Latin word "sententia", meaning "thought" or "opinion". In English, "sententious" was first recorded in the 15th century and was used to describe someone who expressed their thoughts or opinions in a concise and aphoristic manner. Over time, it came to refer to someone who is fond of using moralizing or self-righteous sayings or proverbs to appear wise or superior.
