| 释义 |
cir·cum·lo·cu·tion
\ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷+lōˈkyüshən\ noun
(-s)
Etymology: Latin circumlocution-, circumlocutio (from circum- + locutio speaking, speech, from locutus, past participle of loqui to speak), translation of Greek periphrasis — more at periphrasis
1.
a. : the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea : indirect or roundabout expression
< the gift of the pamphleteer, who cuts through academic circumlocution — Vera M. Dean >
b. : evasion in speech
< a preference for circumlocution rather than forthrightness >
2. : an instance of circumlocution
• cir·cum·lo·cu·tion·al \| ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷shənəl, -shnəl\ or cir·cum·lo·cu·tion·ary \-shəˌnerē, -ri\ adjective |