Vocabulary Spotlight
Belabor
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To excessively explain or emphasize something, often in a way that is unnecessary or tedious; to attack or criticize heavily.
“The manager continued to belabor the same point, long after everyone understood the issue.”
Pronunciation
[bih-ley-ber]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Dwell on
Repeat
Criticize
Overstate
Antonyms
Ignore
Overlook
Condense
Summarize
Related Words
Elaborate
Word Origin
“Belabor” comes from Middle English, combining “be-” as an intensifier with “labor,” meaning to work. Originally meaning “to work at excessively,” it evolved to imply excessive emphasis or criticism.
Word Family
Verb: Belabor – To overly emphasize or criticize.
Noun: Belaboring – The act of excessively emphasizing or criticizing.
Mnemonics
Think of “be-labor” as “being laborious” with an explanation, going over the same point repetitively.
Industry-specific Usage
Business
In business, leaders are advised not to belabor points in meetings, as it can reduce productivity.
Education
In teaching, educators may avoid belaboring topics to maintain student engagement.
Legal
In law, attorneys might belabor key evidence to ensure its impact on the jury, though it risks losing their attention.
In Context
“Belabor” is often used to describe overemphasis in discussions or arguments. It suggests an unnecessary focus, often at the expense of moving forward efficiently.