circumlocution
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.cir·cum·lo·cu·tion
noun \ˌsər-kəm-lō-ˈkyü-shən\Definition of CIRCUMLOCUTION
1
: the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea
2
: evasion in speech
— cir·cum·loc·u·to·ry \-ˈlä-kyə-ˌtȯr-ē\ adjective
See Examples of CIRCUMLOCUTION
- He was criticized for his use of circumlocution.
- I'm trying to avoid circumlocutions in my writing.
Origin of CIRCUMLOCUTION
Middle English circumlocucyon, from Latin circumlocution-, circumlocutio, from circum- + locutio speech, from loqui to speak
First Known Use: 15th century
Related to CIRCUMLOCUTION
- Synonyms
- equivocation, shuffle, tergiversation
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
Rhymes with CIRCUMLOCUTION
Learn More About CIRCUMLOCUTION
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