Circumlocution Figure of Speech: Meaning, Purpose, Examples & Exercise

What Is Circumlocution? Meaning and Definition

According to the Oxford Dictionary, circumlocution definition is the use of too many words to express something; a long, complicated, indirect way of speaking or writing. In addition, as per the Cambridge Dictionary, circumlocution means an indirect way of saying something, especially something unpleasant.

In simple terms, circumlocution is a figure of speech where you use many words to express an idea that could be expressed more concisely.

For example, instead of saying (scissors), you might say “a tool which is used for cutting paper and hair”. In this example, instead of saying directly, many words are used to explain scissors.

Finally, you understood the circumlocution meaning with the above information.

Key Characteristics of Circumlocution

Circumlocution, a figure of speech, is characterized by using more words than necessary to express an idea, often in a roundabout way of speaking. In general, it is a way of talking around rather than stating it directly. This can be used for various purposes, including softening bad news, obscuring the truth, and avoiding direct answers. Other important characteristics are given below.

• Unnecessary Wordiness- Circumlocution is defined by its use of more than required words. It is the opposite of concision, aiming for brevity and clarity.
• Indirect Expression- Circumlocution figure of speech avoids direct statements and instead uses roundabout descriptions.
• Vague or Evasive Language- It can be used for several reasons, such as evading a direct answer, avoiding offense, or creating a specific tone or effect in speaking or writing.
• Intended or Unintentional- Circumlocutory speech can be a deliberate rhetorical device or a result of not knowing the precise word to use.
• Redundancy- Often, circumlocution includes redundant phrases where the same idea is repeated multiple times.
• Relationship to Euphemisms- Circumlocution can be used to construct euphemism, where a more indirect term is used instead of a direct and potentially offensive term.

With the above information, you have explored the circumlocution figure of speech key characteristics.

Examples of Circumlocution Figure of Speech

Circumlocution involves speaking indirectly about something, especially when the speaker wants to avoid saying it directly or is unsure of the word. In different forms, circumlocution is used to express ideas more creatively. A few circumlocution examples are given below.

1. Instead of saying it's late, someone might say the clock is striking the hour of slumber.

2. Someone might say he's not being entirely truthful with his statements instead of saying he's lying.

3. Instead of saying she's fired, you might say she's no longer with the company.

4. You might say, my eyelids are feeling heavy, instead of saying I am tired.

5. Instead of saying he's broke, you might say his finances are in a precarious position.

6. Someone might say it's not quite to my taste instead of saying I don't like it.

7. Instead of saying she's nervous, someone might say her heart is fluttering with anticipation.

8. Someone might say he has passed on instead of saying he's dead.

9. Instead of saying it's expensive, you might say it's a bit of a price to pay.

10. You might say he's not the sharpest tool in the shed instead of saying he's stupid.

Till now, you have explored circumlocution examples in different contexts. Hopefully, you understood the concept of circumlocution well.

Purpose of Using Circumlocution

There are different reasons to use circumlocution in a sentence including avoiding directness, creating vivid imagery, being deliberately obscure, or for comedic effect. Sometimes, it is a necessary communication strategy especially when dealing with sensitive topics. Moreover, here are more purposes mentioned.

To Create Special Imagery:

• Circumlocutory speech can be used to paint a more vivid and detailed picture for the reader or listener beyond a general description.
• By using more words and descriptive language, the speaker or writer can create a stronger impression and make the subject more attractive.

To Avoid the Subject:

• This can be used to discuss an unpleasant or sensitive topics directly in communication
• This can be a way to be polite, avoid confrontation, or maintain a desired level of ambiguity.

To Create Ambiguity:

• The circumlocution figure of speech can be used to create uncertainty or confusion, either intentionally or unintentionally.
• This can be a way to protect oneself, to delay a commitment, or to create an atmosphere of mystery.

Finally, you know the purpose of using circumlocutory speech in communication.

Practice Exercise of Circumlocution with Answers

You have gone through the meaning and definition of circumlocution very well till now. It is time to check your understanding by solving a worksheet. This will help you understand better the use of the circumlocution figure of speech. For each word below, describe it using multiple words without using the word itself.

1. Telephone
2. Book
3. Teacher
4. Computer
5. Weather
6. Watch
7. Television
8. Headphone
9. Shoe
10. Air Conditioner

Answers for the Circumlocution Worksheet:

1. It is a device that allows people to communicate verbally over long distances using electrical signals.
2. A concise summary, usually 100-250 words, highlights the key aspects of a book's plot, characters, and setting.
3. An educator who guides and supports students in their learning journey, typically in a classroom setting.
4. An electronic device that manipulates data or information, allowing users to perform a wide range of tasks.
5. A report of the atmosphere at a specific location and time, focusing on factors like temperature, precipitation, wind, and cloud cover.
6. Itis a portable timepiece used to be worn on the wrist or carried out, help to display the time.
7. It is a piece of electrical equipment in different shapes which has a glass screen shows programmes with moving pictures and sounds.
8. It is a piece of equipment worn over the ears that makes it possible to listen to music, the radio, etc without other people hearing it.
9. A type of footwear, usually made of leather or other materials, that covers and protects the foot.
10. This device cools a space by removing heat and moisture, making it more comfortable for occupants.

Conclusion

To conclude, we have discussed the circumlocution figure of speech in this blog. Now, you are aware of the meaning, purpose, key characteristics, and examples of circumlocution. We have also provided you with a worksheet to solve the questions related to this figure of speech. In English grammar, when you use it, you must follow the rules of nouns, verbs, adverbs, and prepositions. Circumlocution enhances your creativity in English when you have to use more than the required words in communication, so prepare for this figure of speech and improve your language skills.

FAQs

1. What Are the Examples of a Circumlocution Figure of Speech?

Circumlocution figure of speech involves using many words to express something that could be said directly. For example, when we say “the person who passed away” instead of “died”, refer to “the dark lord” as “he-who-must-not-be-named”, or use phrases like “I'd be happy to have something to eat” instead of “I’m hungry”.

2. What Is Circumlocution?

Circumlocution meaning the use of an unnecessarily large group of words to express something. Using circumlocution is necessary sometimes in communication to explain important things. In short, the term that describes a roundabout, using many words to describe something is circumlocution.

3. How Do You Use Circumlocution in a Sentence?

Circumlocutory can be used in a sentence to describe speech or writing that is indirect, roundabout, or unnecessarily words. Here are a few examples:

• The politician's circumlocution frustrated the audience, who wanted direct answers.
• He was criticized for his use of circumlocution.
• I'm trying to avoid circumlocutions in my writing.
• The dead Diana is an ace at tactful circumlocution.

4. What Are Some Synonyms for Circumlocution?

Here are a few synonyms for circumlocution, a figure of speech:

• roundaboutness
• verbiage
• long-windedness
• roundabout expression
• garrulity
• rambling
• wordiness
• verbosity
• digression
• discursiveness

5. Why Is Important to Use a Circumlocution Figure of Speech?

The circumlocution figure of speech is important to soften bad news, avoid being direct, cover gaps in vocabulary, or even for comedic effect. In addition, it can help explain abstract concepts or add nuance to language.