[Dalewyn]

>The counterargument is that lots of words allow for precise concision.

In fact, the hallmark of writing/speaking good English is conveying yourself using the least words required with the utmost precision.

Don't believe it? Watch a British politician roast someone in Parliament. That is bloody masterful English literature right there.

[mogrim]

That's just modern fashion - in other eras "flowery" language would be considered superior.