Circumvent: meaning, definitions and examples

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circumvent

[ˌsɜːr.kəmˈvent ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

avoiding a problem

To circumvent means to find a way to avoid a problem or to get around something in a clever or dishonest way. It involves bypassing a rule, restriction, or obstacle by using a clever strategy.

Synonyms

bypass, dodge, evade, sidestep, skirt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
circumvent	This word is often used in formal or technical contexts to describe the act of finding a way around an obstacle or rule, implying creativity or ingenuity. The company managed to circumvent the new regulations by using a loophole
bypass	This is used when talking about physically or metaphorically going around something that is seen as an obstacle, often suggesting simplicity or directness. The new road was built to bypass the congested city center
evade	This word is used when someone avoids something in a way that implies deceit or trickiness, and it often carries a negative connotation. She was arrested for trying to evade taxes
dodge	Dodging implies a quick or agile action to avoid something, often used in informal contexts and sometimes with a negative connotation, like avoiding responsibilities. He tried to dodge the question by changing the subject
sidestep	Sidestepping is similar to dodging but often used in a less negative sense. It involves avoiding an issue or responsibility through indirect means. Politicians often sidestep direct questions about controversial topics
skirt	To skirt means to go around the edge of something, both physically and metaphorically. It can suggest avoidance without direct confrontation. The report skirted around the main issue, focusing on minor details instead

Examples of usage

You can circumvent the traffic by taking a shortcut through the back streets.
She tried to circumvent the company policy by finding a loophole in the system.
The smugglers attempted to circumvent the border controls by using a secret tunnel.
We need to find a way to circumvent these bureaucratic delays.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from Latin, where 'circum' means 'around' and 'venire' means 'to come'. Together, they imply coming around something.
It has been used in English since the 15th century, primarily associated with avoiding obstacles or problems.

Legal Context

In legal terms, it often refers to bypassing laws or regulations, sometimes leading to debates on ethics.
Lawyers may advise on how to circumvent certain legal hurdles in business transactions.

Technology

In computer science, people might circumvent security measures to access restricted data, raising issues of cybersecurity.
Circumventing software restrictions can also refer to methods used in hacking or modifying applications.

Psychology

Psychologists study how people may circumvent emotional challenges by avoiding confrontational situations.
Avoidance behaviors are a topic of interest, particularly in understanding anxiety and stress management.

Pop Culture

Movies often showcase characters who cleverly circumvent societal rules to achieve their goals, such as con artists or rebels.
Literature frequently features protagonists who must circumvent daunting obstacles to grow or succeed in their journeys.

Translations

Translations of the word "circumvent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contornar

🇮🇳 बाईपास करना

🇩🇪 umgehen

🇮🇩 menghindari

🇺🇦 обійти

🇵🇱 obejść

🇯🇵 回避する

🇫🇷 contourner

🇪🇸 eludir

🇹🇷 aşmak

🇰🇷 우회하다

🇸🇦 تجاوز

🇨🇿 obejít

🇸🇰 obiť

🇨🇳 规避

🇸🇮 obiti

🇮🇸 umganga

🇰🇿 айналып өту

🇬🇪 გადატეხვა

🇦🇿 ətrafdan keçmək

🇲🇽 eludir

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,360, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
16357 eloquently
16358 calibre
16359 lizard
16360 circumvent
16361 molars
16362 carnival
16363 dismantling
...