Circumlocution
noun
Using more words than needed to explain or say something.
He is a master of circumlocution, he can talk and talk without saying anything at all.
Often appears as...
- master of circumlocution
- art of circumlocution
noun
A roundabout or indirect way of speaking.
Through her use of circumlocution, the poet was able to paint an elaborate and vivid image.
Often appears as...
- use of circumlocution
- through circumlocution
Usage tips
Formal
noun
Avoidance of speaking directly or clearly often aimed at deception.
His tendency toward circumlocution made it difficult to discern his true intentions.
Often appears as...
- tendency toward circumlocution
- engaged in circumlocution
Usage tips
Disapproving
noun
Using more words than needed to explain or say something.
He is a master of circumlocution, he can talk and talk without saying anything at all.
Often appears as...
- master of circumlocution
- art of circumlocution
noun
A roundabout or indirect way of speaking.
Through her use of circumlocution, the poet was able to paint an elaborate and vivid image.
Often appears as...
- use of circumlocution
- through circumlocution
Usage tips
Formal
noun
Avoidance of speaking directly or clearly often aimed at deception.
His tendency toward circumlocution made it difficult to discern his true intentions.
Often appears as...
- tendency toward circumlocution
- engaged in circumlocution
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Avoid in Brevity
Don't use circumlocution if the situation requires being brief and direct.
In emergency instructions, circumlocution is avoided; clarity is key.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Negative
Circumlocution might seem evasive, but it's not always meant to confuse.
Sometimes circumlocution is used to add humor or character to speech.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Nuance
Some cultures view circumlocution as polite, especially when discussing sensitive topics.
In diplomatic talks, circumlocution can be a sign of respect.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoid in Brevity
Don't use circumlocution if the situation requires being brief and direct.
In emergency instructions, circumlocution is avoided; clarity is key.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Negative
Circumlocution might seem evasive, but it's not always meant to confuse.
Sometimes circumlocution is used to add humor or character to speech.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Nuance
Some cultures view circumlocution as polite, especially when discussing sensitive topics.
In diplomatic talks, circumlocution can be a sign of respect.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoid in Brevity
Don't use circumlocution if the situation requires being brief and direct.
In emergency instructions, circumlocution is avoided; clarity is key.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Negative
Circumlocution might seem evasive, but it's not always meant to confuse.
Sometimes circumlocution is used to add humor or character to speech.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Nuance
Some cultures view circumlocution as polite, especially when discussing sensitive topics.
In diplomatic talks, circumlocution can be a sign of respect.
Compare with
ambiguitydiffusenessevasionindirectnessobfuscateperiphrasisprolixityverbiagewordiness
Never forget "Circumlocution"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
Quote examples
Noah Feldman
American Author
When we put our trust in diplomacy, it is not because it is an inspiring or uplifting discourse or because it helps us see the common humanity in others. The stylized circumlocutions of diplomats can make them seem ridiculous or irrelevant: they never seem to be talking about what is really going on.
Quote examples
Genevieve Padalecki
American Actress
I use circumlocution too often, and instead of getting my point across, I tend to babble.
Quote examples
Noah Feldman
American Author
When we put our trust in diplomacy, it is not because it is an inspiring or uplifting discourse or because it helps us see the common humanity in others. The stylized circumlocutions of diplomats can make them seem ridiculous or irrelevant: they never seem to be talking about what is really going on.
Quote examples
Genevieve Padalecki
American Actress
I use circumlocution too often, and instead of getting my point across, I tend to babble.
Example 1 of 2
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension