Circular: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate when describing something that is round and continuous without breaks, often used in a general sense.

• The table had a circular design
• The children sat in a circular formation

Commonly used for describing anything that is generally spherical or circular in shape, often casually or simply.

• The ball was round
• He loves round mirrors for his house

Best used when emphasizing the shape of an object, especially when that shape is clearly round and the primary focus.

• The logo was circular-shaped to represent unity
• She wore a circular-shaped pendant

Ideal when referring to something that is round but with a hollow center, similar to a ring.

• The island was ring-shaped with a lagoon in the middle
• The donut was perfectly ring-shaped

Used to describe an object or path that is shaped like a circle or a situation that has no clear end, often leading back to the starting point.

• The circular table was perfect for the dining room.
• Their argument was circular, and they didn't come to any new conclusions.

Often used in scientific or mathematical contexts to describe something that happens in intervals or repeats in a cycle.

• Plant growth patterns are cyclic, following the seasons.
• The economic data shows a cyclic trend over several years.

Used to describe something that is boring or tedious because it repeats the same action or pattern over and over.

• The job was so repetitive that it became monotonous.
• Her speech was repetitive, and people lost interest quickly.

Typically used in computer science and mathematics to describe a process that repeats in a self-referential way, often referring back to itself.

• A recursive function calls itself to create a loop.
• Solving the puzzle required a recursive approach.

A circular is often used in the context of internal communication within an organization or in a business. It typically refers to an official notice or memo circulated among employees or stakeholders. It may also be used in marketing for a repetitive pattern of messages.

• The manager sent out a circular to inform everyone about the meeting.
• The company issued a circular emphasizing the new safety protocols.

A leaflet is a single-sheet or folded piece of paper that provides information or advertising in a concise manner. It is commonly used for quick distribution to a large audience, such as in public places.

• We distributed leaflets about the upcoming concert in the park.
• The political candidate handed out leaflets to explain his policies.

A pamphlet is a small booklet with a few pages, often used to share information on specific topics or issues, including educational content, religious tracts, or political messages. It can sometimes carry a connotation of informal or advocacy content.

• The clinic provided a pamphlet on how to prevent seasonal flu.
• She wrote a pamphlet to raise awareness about environmental conservation.

A brochure is a small book or magazine containing pictures and information about a product or service. It is usually used in marketing and advertising to give detailed information and attract potential customers.

• The travel agency handed me a brochure about their holiday packages.
• You can find all the details about our new product line in this brochure.