Roundaboutness: meaning, definitions and examples
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roundaboutness
[ ˌraʊndəˈbaʊtnəs ]
abstract concept
Roundaboutness refers to the quality of being indirect or circuitous. It can describe a style of communication or reasoning that avoids a straightforward approach and instead takes a longer or more complicated route.
Synonyms
circumlocution, indirection, periphrasis, verbosity
Examples of usage
- The speaker's roundaboutness made it difficult to understand their main point.
- Roundaboutness in instructions often leads to confusion among the audience.
- Her writing is known for its roundaboutness, requiring careful reading to grasp the message.
Etymology
The term 'roundaboutness' is derived from the adjective 'roundabout,' which originally meant circular in path or direction. This adjective draws upon the word 'round,' which has roots in Old English 'rund' meaning 'circular, rounded, or encircling.' The suffix '-ness' is added to form a noun, signifying a state or quality. As language evolved, 'roundabout' began to take on metaphorical meanings related to communication and reasoning, particularly when discourse is not direct but rather involves ambiguity or indirectness. The formation of 'roundaboutness' allows for the expression of these nuanced qualities added to this form of indirect communication, reflecting how linguistic and cognitive processes have developed over time to accommodate complex forms of interaction.