What word refers to a manner of speaking that is excessively wordy and difficult to understand?

The word "prolix" refers specifically to a manner of speaking or writing that is excessively long and wordy, often making it cumbersome and difficult to comprehend. It describes a style that goes beyond the necessary detail, leading to a text or speech that can lose clarity and focus due to its length.

Both "verbose" and "prolix" convey similar meanings, emphasizing excessive wordiness; however, "prolix" often carries a stronger connotation of tedium and unnecessary elaboration. "Verbose," while also meaning overly wordy, doesn't inherently imply a lack of clarity to the same intensity as "prolix."

The other choices, "clear" and "pretentious," are not related to excessive wordiness. "Clear" denotes clarity and straightforwardness in communication, while "pretentious" describes a manner of speaking that conveys an inflated sense of importance or sophistication, often without regard to clarity or simplicity. Thus, "prolix” is the best fit for a manner of speaking that is excessively wordy and difficult to understand.