roundabout

• Qualifie un itinéraire ou une manière de parler qui n'est pas direct ; indirect ou détourné.

Describes a route or manner of speaking that is not direct; indirect or circuitous.

1. Indirect in speech or conductB2formal

   Characterized by a lack of directness or straightforwardness; using hints or evasive language.

   indirect, détourné

   • He gave a roundabout answer to avoid the real issue.
   • Her roundabout way of asking for help confused everyone.
   • The politician's roundabout statements frustrated the reporters.

   Synonymescircuitousdeviousequivocalevasiveindirectmeanderingobliquetortuous

   Antonymesbluntcandiddirectforthrightfrankhonestopensincerestraightforwardunreserved

2. Not following a direct pathB2formal

   Deviating from the shortest or most direct route; circuitous.

   détourné / indirect

   • We took a roundabout route to avoid the traffic jam.
   • The river follows a roundabout course through the valley.
   • His roundabout journey took twice as long as expected.

   Synonymescircuitousdeviousindirectmeanderingobliquetortuouswinding

   Antonymesdirectstraightstraightforward

• Nom désignant un carrefour giratoire où la circulation s'effectue autour d'un îlot central, ou une plateforme rotative pour enfants sur une aire de jeux.

A noun with two common meanings: a circular road junction where traffic moves around a central island, or a playground ride consisting of a rotating platform with seats.

1. Traffic circleA2formal

   A road junction where traffic moves in a circular direction around a central island, designed to improve traffic flow.

   Carrefour giratoire

   • Take the third exit at the roundabout to reach the station.
   • The city installed a new roundabout to reduce congestion.
   • Drivers must yield to traffic already in the roundabout.

   Synonymescirclecircusrotarytraffic circle

2. Playground rideA1informal

   A large, rotating platform or structure with seats, often found in playgrounds, that children ride for amusement.

   Tourniquet de jeu

   • The children were laughing as they spun on the roundabout.
   • She pushed the roundabout faster for her little brother.
   • The park has a colorful roundabout with handles for safety.

   Synonymescarouselmerry-go-roundwhirligig