Circumlocutionist

/ˌsɜːrkəmˈlɒkjuːʃənɪst/ noun

Definition

A person who uses indirect, roundabout language instead of saying things directly or simply.

Etymology

From circumlocution (from Latin circum- and loqui, to speak), meaning 'speaking around.' The -ist suffix identifies a person who does this habitually.

Kelly Says

Politicians and diplomats are professional circumlocutionists—they can talk for hours without actually answering your question, which is why press briefings sometimes feel like watching someone describe a circle without mentioning roundness.

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