ISEE/SSAT Vocabulary Builder›Words›C›circumlocution
ISEE/SSAThard
circumlocution
the use of many words to express an idea that could be said more directly
Synonyms
- wordiness
- periphrasis
Antonyms
- directness
- conciseness
- bluntness
circumlocution in a sentence
The senator's circumlocution left reporters no clearer about whether he supported the bill.
Instead of admitting the shipment was late, the manager buried the news in circumlocution about unforeseen logistics.
Where it comes from
From Latin circum 'around' and loqui 'to speak'
Memory hook
CIRCUM (around) + LOCUTION (speaking) — talking around the point instead of to it.
Word parts
- circum — around
circumlocution: circum- (around) + loc (speak) - loc/loq — speech
circumlocution: circum- (around) + loc (speak) + -tion
Read it in context
- The Eastern Turn History
Practice circumlocution in the app