circumlocution

Circumlocution (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does circumlocution mean?

The use of excessive or roundabout language to express an idea or to avoid directly answering a question.
"He used circumlocution to soften the blow of his criticism."

Detailed Meaning of Circumlocution

It is a form of indirectness that can be used intentionally or unintentionally. Circumlocution is often associated with formal or academic writing, where complex ideas are often conveyed using technical language and convoluted sentence structures. However, it can also be seen in everyday conversation, where people may use euphemisms or vague language to avoid addressing sensitive or uncomfortable topics directly. While circumlocution can be a useful tool for diplomacy or tact, it can also be frustrating for listeners who are trying to understand the speaker's true intentions.

Example Sentences for Circumlocution

1. His circumlocution made it hard to grasp his point.
2. Avoiding a direct answer, she resorted to circumlocution.
3. The politician's speech was filled with confusing circumlocutions.
4. The use of circumlocution obscured the true meaning.
5. Effective communication avoids unnecessary circumlocutions.
6. He mastered the art of circumlocution to evade questions.

Origin and Etymology of Circumlocution

The noun 'circumlocution' has its origins in Latin, where 'circum' means 'around' and 'loqui' means 'to speak.' The term 'circumlocution' literally translates to 'speaking around' or 'talking in circles.' Its etymology underscores the concept of using excessive or roundabout language to convey an idea or to evade a direct response. 'Circumlocution' describes the practice of expressing something in a lengthy or indirect manner, often to obscure the intended meaning or to avoid giving a straightforward answer. This word highlights the use of unnecessary words and complexity in communication, rather than conveying thoughts or information with brevity and clarity.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun circumlocution:

conciseness

brevity

terseness

verbosity

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Circumlocution

1. Lawyers often employ circumlocution in their arguments.
2. The student's essay was criticized for excessive circumlocution.
3. Skillful writers avoid unnecessary circumlocutions in their prose.
4. The diplomat's circumlocution left reporters frustrated.
5. His circumlocutions only served to complicate matters.
6. Clarity is preferred over excessive circumlocution in writing.
7. The teacher encouraged concise expression, not circumlocution.
8. The CEO's circumlocution left employees uncertain about the plan.
9. She disliked the use of circumlocution in formal documents.
10. Political debates often devolve into meaningless circumlocution.
11. The poet used circumlocution to create a sense of mystery.
12. The detective deciphered the suspect's circumlocution.
13. Students were taught to avoid circumlocution in their speeches.
14. The author's avoidance of direct answers led to circumlocutions in the interview.
15. The politician was skilled at using circumlocution to avoid answering difficult questions.
16. His essay was full of unnecessary circumlocution, making it hard to understand his point.
17. The professor's use of circumlocution in his lecture left many students confused.
18. The lawyer's circumlocution was a tactic to stall for time in court.
19. His circumlocution was an attempt to avoid hurting her feelings.
20. Her circumlocution was frustrating to her colleagues who needed a clear answer.
21. The CEO's circumlocution in the press conference did little to reassure investors.
22. His use of circumlocution was a sign of his lack of confidence in public speaking.
23. The writer's circumlocution was a reflection of his love for flowery language.
24. The politician's circumlocution was criticized as a way of avoiding accountability.
25. The speaker's circumlocution made it difficult for the audience to follow her argument.