Main content

On Hyperbole

Howard Jacobson on the dangers of intemperate language and the fashion to use over-inflated language 'where words prance about without their clothes, shouting obscenities.'

Remember the days, Howard Jacobson implores us, when we got on fine with 'very'?

Today, Howard argues, 'very’ is not ‘very’ enough for the times we live in.' In its place, 'incredible' and other supersized words, spreading 'verbal chaos.'

Howard reflects on the dangers of over-inflated language, 'where words prance about without their clothes, shouting obscenities.'

Producer: Adele Armstrong
Sound: Peter Bosher
Production coordinator: Gemma Ashman
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

Available now

9 minutes

Last on

Last Sunday 08:48

Broadcasts

  • Fri 24 Jan 2025 20:50
  • Last Sunday 08:48

Podcast