What is Circumlocution? Definition and Examples

Have you ever forgotten a word and tried to explain it using other words? Or tried to be polite by not saying something too directly? That’s called circumlocution. It is a useful part of natural spoken and written English. 

In this article, you will learn what circumlocution is, the types of circumlocution, and examples.

What is Circumlocution?

Circumlocution is the use of many words to say something that could be said more simply. Instead of naming something directly, we describe it or talk around it. 

Example:

Instead of saying “knife”, someone might say ” a sharp object used to cut things.

Why Do We Use Circumlocution?

• We forget the exact word
• We want to be polite or avoid being rude
• We are trying to explain something to a learner
• We want to sound formal or diplomatic

Types of Circumlocution

• Descriptive circumlocution
• Polite Circumlocution
• Vague or Indirect speech

Examples of Circumlocution

• A round object you kick in football
• The place you go to learn
• The thing you use to speak to someone far away 

Circumlocution helps English learners speak confidently even when they don’t know the exact word. It is also a way to be polite or formal. The more you practice it, the better you will get at expressing your thoughts.

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