circumlocution

• Substantiv, das den Gebrauch vieler Worte bezeichnet, wo wenige genügen würden, besonders um Klarheit oder Direktheit zu vermeiden; eine indirekte oder umschweifende Ausdrucksweise.

A noun referring to the use of many words where fewer would do, especially to avoid being clear or direct; an indirect or roundabout way of expressing something.

1. Indirect expressionC1formal

   The use of many words where fewer would do, especially to avoid being direct or clear.

   Weitschweifigkeit

   • The politician's speech was full of circumlocution, avoiding any clear answer.
   • Instead of saying 'no', she used a circumlocution that left everyone confused.
   • His writing style is marked by unnecessary circumlocution.

   Synonymediffusenessperiphrasisverbositywordiness

   Antonymebrevityconcisiondirectnessterseness

2. Evasive speechC1formal

   A roundabout or indirect way of speaking, often used to avoid saying something unpleasant or direct.

   Weitschweifigkeit

   • The witness's circumlocution frustrated the lawyer.
   • He resorted to circumlocution when asked about his past.
   • Circumlocution is a common tactic in diplomatic negotiations.

   Synonymeequivocationevasionhedgingindirectionprevaricationshuffling

   Antonymecandordirectnessfranknessstraightforwardness