1
Core quality
Expressing approval, gratitude, or emotion with unusually great enthusiasm.
Example
The critic was effusive in her praise of the performance.
effusive
/ɪˈfjuːsɪv/ · ih-FYOO-sivadjective
Expressing approval, gratitude, or emotion with unusually great enthusiasm.
Use effusive to express this relationship precisely: expressing approval, gratitude, or emotion with unusually great enthusiasm.
What effusive Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
His effusive welcome surprised the reserved delegation.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
The letter is appreciative without becoming effusive.
Use effusive Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The critic was effusive in her praise of the performance.
His effusive welcome surprised the reserved delegation.
The letter is appreciative without becoming effusive.
Precision Matters
Effusive overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
effusive
vs.Means expressing approval, gratitude, or emotion with unusually great enthusiasm.
zealous
Means showing intense enthusiasm, energy, or devotion to a cause or goal.
effusive
vs.Means expressing approval, gratitude, or emotion with unusually great enthusiasm.
articulate
Means able to express ideas clearly, fluently, and effectively.
effusive
vs.Means expressing approval, gratitude, or emotion with unusually great enthusiasm.
reticent
Means reserved or reluctant to speak, reveal thoughts, or participate.
effusive
vs.Means expressing approval, gratitude, or emotion with unusually great enthusiasm.
laconic
Means using very few words.
Test effusive in Context
The editor expresses unusually enthusiastic praise.
1
The normally restrained editor became ___, calling the novel brilliant, moving, and unforgettable.