Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
circumlocutory
Adjective
/ˌsɜːr.kəm.ləˈkjuː.tɔːr.i/
Definition
Characterized by the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea.
Examples
- His circumlocutory explanation left everyone confused instead of enlightened.
- To avoid giving a straight answer, she resorted to circumlocutory speech.
- Many politicians use circumlocutory language to dodge tough questions.
Meaning
The term refers to the tendency to speak in a roundabout way rather than being direct and concise.
Synonyms
- Wordy
- Verbose
- Indirect
- Long-winded
