1. the use of many words to express an idea that could be stated more briefly; a roundabout way of speaking or writing
Usage: often considered a fault in writing or speech

Examples

• Instead of saying 'he died,' the author used circumlocution and wrote 'he passed from this mortal coil.'
• The politician's circumlocution made it impossible to understand his actual position on the issue.
• Her tendency toward circumlocution frustrated her audience, who wished she would simply state her point.
• The legal document was full of circumlocution, requiring a lawyer to interpret its meaning.
• He avoided the direct answer through circumlocution, speaking around the topic for several minutes.
• Good writing avoids circumlocution and favors clear, concise language.