circumlocution

Everyday

1. (formal) Circumlocution is using many words to say something that could be said simply, often to avoid saying it directly. tree →
2. A circumlocution is one such roundabout phrase. tree →

In the lessons

In English lessons pupils meet circumlocution when studying euphemisms and politicians' talk: «not entirely truthful» instead of «lying». Teachers warn against it in writing because it hides the meaning. It is the stiff exam word for «talking around the point».

Examples

• «Passed away» is a gentle circumlocution for «died». tree →
• The minister's answer was pure circumlocution. tree →
• Cut the circumlocution and tell me what happened. tree →
• «Experiencing a cash-flow problem» is a circumlocution for «having no money». tree →
• Good writers avoid circumlocution. tree →
• His speech was full of circumlocution. tree →

Note

Formal word. From Latin «circum» (around) and «locution» (speaking). Pronounced «sir-kum-loh-KYOO-shun».