Litany

usgb/ˈlɪtəni/
noun

A long, often repetitive list, usually of complaints, problems, or reasons.

John recited a litany of reasons why he should be granted an extension for his assignment.
Visual representation of "litany" - A long, often repetitive list, usually of complaints, problems, or reasons

Often appears as...

  • litany of complaints
  • litany of reasons
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "litany"
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Negative Connotation

Used to express displeasure, often sounding like a complaint or an extensive series of problems.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The meeting started with a litany of issues the team faced last week.
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Expresses Exhaustion

Indicates the speaker is tired or overwhelmed by the number or similarity of items listed.

Illustration for Expresses Exhaustion
She sighed as she recounted the litany of tasks she had yet to finish.
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Hyperbolic Effect

Often used to exaggerate for effect, not to be taken as a literal long list.

Illustration for Hyperbolic Effect
His litany of excuses left us more amused than convinced.
Visual representation of the word "Litany"

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