Circumlocution

Definition of Figurative Circumlocution

This is a positive way to use circumlocution.

Here's an example:

This example uses figurative circumlocution to describe a vase. It uses more words than is necessary. Note that figurative circumlocution never says the name of the word it replaces (e.g., "vase" is not said here).

Figurative circumlocution is useful when using figurative language.

Circumlocution is not strictly necessary when writing. However, writers will use circumlocution to be artful or to create distance between the reader and the subject. For instance, if a writer is describing a space alien who sees a cat for the first time, the writer might use circumlocution like this:

More simply, you could write "the cat meowed." However, by using circumlocution, the writer captures what the alien witnesses and thus brings the writer closer to the alien's perspective on the cat.

Definition of Evasive Circumlocution

The other kind of circumlocution is something you should avoid.

This is the more common usage for circumlocution. Here's an example:

This is an extremely long way to say "Yes," when "yes" would do. This is not an honest explanation of why this person entered the abandoned hotel. It is a wordy explanation to avoid guilt.

Both modes of circumlocution are extended ways to say something simple. However, figurative circumlocution is helpful or artistic, while evasive circumlocution is unhelpful and disingenuous.

Evasive circumlocution is related to the logical fallacy (rhetorical fallacy) because it is dishonest.

There are many logical fallacies, ranging from equivocation to the ad hominem argument.

Circumlocution Communication Strategies

Here is how you analyze circumlocution in various modes of communication.

Analyzing Figurative Circumlocution Strategies

In language and literature, you will most often encounter figurative circumlocution in fiction and nonfiction stories.

Take a look at this example of circumlocution:

This example uses circumlocution to describe a river because at no point is the word "river" used, only a description of what the river is like. This example also uses figurative language because there is not a literal snake in the canyon, only a snake as it expresses a river.

Fig. 1 - You can use circumlocution to describe anything you want.

This example of circumlocution is also a simile.

Steps to Analyzing Circumlocution

When analyzing circumlocution, identify these essential things.

• What does the circumlocution communicate?

This passage communicates that an intimidating river runs through the canyon.

• How does the circumlocution communicate this?

By describing the river as a monstrous snake, the writer implies that the river is uncontrollable, dangerous, twisting, and always moving. The circumlocution gives life and vibrancy to the river.

• Why does the circumlocution communicate this?

The author wants to present the river as something the characters battle, the way a knight battles a dragon. The river is the monster to be defeated.

This analysis requires knowledge of the complete passage, but you should get the idea. In your analysis, use the entire passage to explain "what, how, and why."

Analyzing Evasive Circumlocution Strategies

To identify circumlocution as evasive, look for these three things.

1. An indirect answer. Any form of an indirect answer that's longer than what you think is required could be a use of circumlocution.

2. Reticence. If the writer or speaker continually avoids saying something in simpler terms when they could, there is a chance that they are using circumlocution.

3. An ulterior motive. This is the big one, and it will help you decide whether someone is using evasive circumlocution or is simply trying to explain a complex answer. You must be able to identify why someone is being wordy. There is no quick check to determine this, so you must read the passage (or listen to the speaker) carefully.

Circumlocution Examples

Here are two examples of circumlocution. Based on the limited context, try to identify which one is a figurative use of circumlocution and which one is an evasive use of circumlocution.

Fig. 2 - What kind of circumlocution is described?

Here are the answers:

The first example uses evasive circumlocution, a reply to a question like: Did you start the fight?

The second example uses figurative circumlocution. It is a long way of saying, "We fought."

Activities to Practice Circumlocution

If you want to master circumlocution as a form of figurative language, here are some ways to practice.

Define Words to Practice Circumlocution

Take a word like "stone," and think of ways you can define it. For example, a stone is a hard, cold piece of the earth that shatters into more of itself.

Try it with these words:

• Pot
• Hammer
• Hat

Say What Something Is Like to Practice Circumlocution

Try your hand at creating short similes. A simile is saying something is like something else. For example, a stone is like glass that you can't see through. Try to be creative! For example, a stone is like a villain's heart.

Try it with these words:

• Flower
• The moon
• Snow

Start Writing to Practice Circumlocution!

There's no better way to practice circumlocutions than to give it a go. Try to use what you've practiced with definitions and similes to write a complete circumlocution. Remember, your goal is to describe a word artfully without using the word!

Try it with these words:

• Dog
• Rain
• Axe

Synonyms for Circumlocution

Euphemisms and innuendo are related to figurative circumlocutions.

For instance, "H-E-double hockey sticks" is a euphemism for "hell." This is also a circumlocution for the word "hell."

Innuendo is similar to euphemism, except innuendo usually applies to actions as opposed to single words or ideas.