Circumlocution

Definition: A form of writing where the writer uses exaggeratedly long and complex sentences in order to convey a meaning that could have otherwise been conveyed through a shorter, much simpler sentence (talking around the subject). Circumlocution involves stating an idea or a view in an indirect manner that will usually leave a reader to guess the actual meaning. The writer uses this to remain ambiguous or to state things in a way that is not offensive, or to add artistic value.

Examples from Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 18”:

“Thou art more lovely and more temperate…”

“So long as men can breathe or eyes can see…”

Function:

The first example in the sonnet uses circumlocution in a subtle way to add artistic value to the poem. The phrase “more lovely” is used instead of the correct word “lovelier” in order to keep the rhythm of the poem consistent. If the word “lovelier” was used, it would have broken the poem’s iambic pentameter.

The second example adds great artistic value to the end of the poem. The phrase “So long as men can breathe or eyes can see…” is a more complex way of stating, “As long as humans live.” Again, Shakespeare uses circumlocution here to add beauty to his work, as well as keeping the rhythm consistent.

Other Example (Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad):

“The edge of a colossal jungle, so dark green as to be almost black, fringed with white surf, ran straight, like a ruled line, far, far away along a blue sea whose glitter was blurred by a creeping mist.”

In this excerpt from Heart of Darkness, Conrad provides a long-winded description of the jungle instead of a straightforward one. The use of circumlocution here is used primarily to provide ambiguous correlations between the jungle and the themes of morality and evil. By using circumlocution, Conrad makes the story demand the reader’s attention in order to comprehend what is trying to be conveyed in a very artistic and subtle way.

Non-original Mnemonic:

Original Mnemonic:

When confronted with circumlocution, you must locate the meaning in the author's circle of words.