circumlocution
/ˌsɜrkəmloʊˈkjuʃən/
noun
- The use of many words where fewer would do, especially to avoid being direct or clear; indirect or evasive speech.
- The teacher advised the student to avoid circumlocution and get straight to the point in the essay.
- The politician's circumlocution frustrated reporters who wanted a straight answer.
- Instead of saying 'no,' she engaged in circumlocution, talking around the issue for several minutes.
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