periphrasis
/pəˈrɪfrəsɪs/
noun
- The use of many words to express an idea that could be said more briefly; a roundabout way of speaking or writing.
- The politician's speech was full of periphrasis, making simple ideas sound complicated.
- Instead of saying 'I'm tired,' he used periphrasis: 'I am experiencing a state of profound fatigue.'
- Teachers often advise students to avoid periphrasis and write more directly.
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