Circumlocution
Circumlocution
Circumlocution (/ˌsɜːrkəmləˈkjuːʃən/; from Latin circum "around" and locutio "speech") is a rhetorical device that can be defined as an indirect and lengthy way of expressing something. The term is used to describe a speaker or writer who uses excessively complex or vague language to express an idea, often when a simpler and more direct form of communication is available.
Etymology
The term "circumlocution" comes from the Latin circum meaning "around" and locutio meaning "speech". It was first used in English in the mid-16th century.
Related Terms
- Euphemism: A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt.
- Tautology (rhetoric): The saying of the same thing twice in different words, generally considered to be a fault of style.
- Pleonasm: The use of more words than are necessary to convey meaning.
- Periphrasis: The use of indirect and circumlocutory speech or writing.
- Obfuscation: The action of making something obscure, unclear, or unintelligible.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Circumlocution
- Wikipedia's article - Circumlocution
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