Circumlocution

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ËŒsɜː(ɹ).kÉ™m.ləˈkjuː.ʃənÌ©/
• US IPA: /sÉškÉ™mloʊˈkjuʃənÌ©/

Origin

From Latin circumlocūtiō ("the act of speaking around; circumlocution, periphrasis"). Surface analysis -("around") + locution("talk"); see these for related terms. Probably a calque of Ancient Greek περίφρασις (periphrasis, "periphrasis").

Full definition of circumlocution

Noun

1. A roundabout or indirect way of speaking; the use of more words than necessary to express an idea.
2. A roundabout expression. See also euphemism

Synonyms

• beat around the bush
• periphrasis
• ambages

Derived terms

• circumlocutionary
• circumlocutional

Related terms

• circumlocutory
• See also locution