circumlocution

• Nom désignant l'utilisation d'un grand nombre de mots là où on pourrait en employer moins, en particulier pour éviter la clarté ou la franchise ; manière indirecte ou détournée de s'exprimer.

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.

   circonlocution

   • 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.

   Synonymesdiffusenessperiphrasisverbositywordiness

   Antonymesbrevityconcisiondirectnessterseness

2. Evasive speechC1formal

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

   Circonlocution

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

   Synonymesequivocationevasionhedgingindirectionprevaricationshuffling

   Antonymescandordirectnessfranknessstraightforwardness