Circumlocute

/ˌsɜːrkəmˈloʊkjuːt/ verb

Definition

To speak or write using many words in a roundabout way; to express something indirectly using a circuitous path of language.

Etymology

From Latin 'circumlocutus' (spoke around, from 'circum' around + 'loqui' to speak). This verb form derived from the noun 'circumlocution' in the 16th-17th centuries, giving a verb form to the act of being wordy.

Kelly Says

When politicians 'circumlocute,' they're avoiding direct answers by talking around the issue—it's strategic wordiness! Interestingly, the opposite skill (saying much in few words) is called 'laconic,' making these two words perfect opposites in how humans can deliberately control their speech.

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