Circuitous

usgb/sərˈkjuːɪtəs/
adjective

Not straight, short, or direct. An indirect or roundabout way.

Instead of going straight to the topic, his speech was more circuitous than a maze.
Visual representation of "circuitous" - Not straight, short, or direct. An indirect or roundabout way.

Often appears as...

  • circuitous route
  • circuitous method
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "circuitous"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Avoid in Simplicity

Use 'circuitous' when simplicity isn't the goal and complexity is expected or required in the explanation or route.

Illustration for Avoid in Simplicity
His instructions were unnecessarily circuitous for such a simple task.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Extended Conversations

'Circuitous' is often used when someone takes a long time to get to the point in a conversation.

Illustration for Extended Conversations
During the debate, her circuitous answers frustrated the audience.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Negative

Sometimes 'circuitous' can describe a positive and strategic approach rather than a purely inefficient one.

Illustration for Not Always Negative
The lawyer took a circuitous approach to reveal the unexpected evidence.
Visual representation of the word "Circuitous"

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