Which word denotes a style of speech that is overly grandiose and showy?

• A. Archaic
• B. Assuage
• C. Cacophony
• D. Bombastic

Answer: (D)

At the heart of this question is how a word captures a way of speaking that aims to impress through inflated, pompous language rather than through substance. Bombastic describes speech that is high-sounding and pretentious, yet often hollow or lacking real meaning. It’s the kind of style that uses grandiose phrases and elaborate rhetoric to sound important.

That’s why it’s the best fit here. Archaic means old-fashioned or outmoded language, not specifically grandiose. Assuage means to soothe or relieve, which has nothing to do with style of speech. Cacophony refers to a sharp, discordant mixture of sounds, not the manner of speaking.

So the style of speech described is bombastic.