CIRCUMLOCUTION Meaning and
Definition
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Circumlocution refers to the use of excessive or roundabout language to express an idea or convey meaning, often resulting in unnecessary wordiness or ambiguity. This term commonly describes the act of using more words than necessary to explain something, avoid directness, or evade the topic at hand. Individuals who engage in circumlocution may do so intentionally to obscure their thoughts or intentions, or unintentionally due to a lack of clarity or conciseness in their communication.
Circumlocution can be observed in various contexts, such as in formal writing, political speeches, or everyday conversations. It is often employed as a rhetorical device to sound more sophisticated, to create an illusion of knowledge, or to mask the speaker's lack of understanding on a subject. However, excessive circumlocution can hinder effective communication, as it can confuse the listener or reader and prevent them from grasping the intended message.
In an effort to reduce circumlocution, individuals are encouraged to prioritize clarity, brevity, and directness in their communication. By using precise and concise language, one can effectively convey ideas without resorting to unnecessary verbosity or confusing phrasing. Overcoming circumlocution enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of communication, allowing for clearer comprehension of information and ideas.
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The use of many words to express an idea, when the use of one word or few words, expressing the same idea, is wished to be avoided; a periphrasis.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CIRCUMLOCUTION
- xircumlocution
- vircumlocution
- fircumlocution
- dircumlocution
- curcumlocution
- cjrcumlocution
- ckrcumlocution
- corcumlocution
- c9rcumlocution
- c8rcumlocution
- ciecumlocution
- cidcumlocution
- cifcumlocution
- citcumlocution
- ci5cumlocution
- ci4cumlocution
- cirxumlocution
- circumlocutuion
- circumlocutin
- circumvolutiom
- Circumlucution
Etymology of CIRCUMLOCUTION
The word "circumlocution" is derived from Latin roots. Its etymology can be traced back to two Latin words: "circum", meaning "around" or "about", and "loqui", meaning "to speak" or "to talk". The combination of these roots gives us "circumlocutio", which means "a speaking around" or "a roundabout way of speaking" in Latin. This term was later borrowed into English to refer to the act of using excessive or unnecessary words to express something, often resulting in indirect or evasive language.
Similar spelling words for CIRCUMLOCUTION
- circumnavigation,
- circumstantial,
- circumspection,
- circumcision,
- circumspect,
- circumspectly,
- circumvention,
- circumduction,
- circumvolution,
- circumlocutory,
- circumlocutious,
- circumscription.
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