10 Words to Make You Sound Wicked Smart

Malaise [mal·aise] – physical discomfort or a general feeling of being under the weather.

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Sentence Example: She suffered from a malaise that kept her from enjoying the party.

Non sequitur [non se·qui·tur] – a statement that does not logically follow what has been said before.

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Sentence Example: Her comment about dogs was a real non sequitur when we'd been talking about going to the beach.

Obfuscate [ob·fus·cate] – to confuse someone, or to obscure the meaning of something.

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Sentence Example: The teenagers used text speak and emojis to obfuscate their messages from their parents.

Perfunctory [per·func·to·ry] – something done without much care or attention.

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Sentence Example: The customer made a perfunctory review of the sales agreement before he signed.

Quid pro quo - giving something in exchange for getting something.

• Origin: Latin meaning "this for that"
• Part of Speech: Noun
• Sentence Example: He gave her food from his garden as a quid pro quo for her cutting his hair.

Quintessential [quin·tes·sen·tial] – a typical example of a particular person or characteristic.

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Sentence Example: It was the quintessential chocolate chip cookie, with its slightly chewy texture and giant chocolate pieces.

Vitriol [vit·ri·ol] – bitter feelings expressed in writing or speaking.

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Sentence Example: Their reactions to his comments were pure vitriol.

Sycophant [syc·o·phant] – a person who tries to gain attention by flattering powerful or influential people.

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Sentence Example: She became a real sycophant when she wanted her boss to provide a good referral.