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Circumvent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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circumvent

[หŒsษœหr.kษ™mหˆvent ]

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?

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'circumvent'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'circumvent' comes from the Latin word 'circumvenire', which means 'to come around'. It dates back to the 16th century and originally referred to the act of going around something physically. Over time, it evolved to also include the idea of avoiding or bypassing something in a more abstract sense.

See also: circumvention.

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.