Circumlocutorily

Adverb. In a manner that uses indirect or roundabout language, often to avoid saying something directly or to be evasive. This approach involves employing excessive verbosity, euphemisms, or elaborate phrasing to convey a simple idea, sometimes obscuring the actual message or intent. The use of 'circumlocutorily' can stem from a desire to be polite, to maintain secrecy, to stall for time, or to intentionally mislead. It implies a deliberate choice to express oneself in a less straightforward manner than necessary, potentially creating ambiguity or confusion. The term highlights the characteristic of using 'a lot of words' to say 'a little thing'. It's a style of communication that prioritizes avoiding directness over clarity.

Circumlocutorily meaning with examples

• The politician, when questioned about the scandal, answered circumlocutorily, offering vague assurances and avoiding any direct acknowledgement of wrongdoing. The reporter, frustrated by the evasiveness, pressed for a concrete response, but the politician continued to dance around the issue, buying time but offering nothing substantial.
• The lawyer, during his closing argument, presented the evidence circumlocutorily, building a complex narrative that subtly pointed towards the defendant’s guilt without directly accusing them. His careful wording and implied connections created an atmosphere of suspicion, leaving the jury to connect the dots and infer the truth.
• Instead of directly rejecting the offer, she responded circumlocutorily, praising certain aspects of the proposal while subtly hinting at her reservations. This allowed her to maintain a polite demeanor while effectively signaling her lack of enthusiasm without causing offense or shutting down future dialogue.
• The diplomat, attempting to navigate a sensitive negotiation, spoke circumlocutorily, carefully crafting each sentence to avoid offending any party or revealing the true intentions of their delegation. His use of nuanced language and indirect phrasing was essential in maintaining the delicate balance of the discussion.
• The author, crafting a fantastical tale, employed circumlocutorily, employing elaborate descriptions and symbolic language to create a sense of mystery and wonder. The readers, drawn into the carefully constructed world, had to interpret the many layers to uncover the meaning hidden beneath the verbose prose.