Circuitousness

Circuitousness refers to the quality or state of being roundabout, indirect, or lengthy in action or speech. It implies a deviation from a direct or straightforward path, whether physical, metaphorical, or rhetorical. This characteristic often involves using a more complex or elaborate route than necessary. The term emphasizes the lack of directness, the tendency to wander from the main point, and the potential for unnecessary delays or detours. A high degree of circuitousness can lead to confusion, frustration, or inefficiency, while a lower level might be used for effect. It's about navigating a winding, rather than a straight, route to an outcome.

Circuitousness meaning with examples

• The politician's speech was marked by its circuitousness, dodging the central question with long-winded anecdotes and complex arguments, leaving the audience unsure of his true position. This tactic further eroded trust in the politician.
• Despite being instructed to report the issue immediately, the employee's description of the event was clouded by circuitousness. It made it difficult for the manager to discern the core problem.
• The maze-like layout of the old city was known for its circuitousness, requiring visitors to navigate winding alleyways and hidden courtyards.
• Due to the circuitousness of the instructions, it took the team much longer than expected to assemble the equipment, as it included unnecessary steps.
• He appreciated the author's descriptive prose, but the novel's plot suffered from an unnecessary circuitousness, with many chapters that felt unrelated.