In the realm of language and communication, some terms appear so closely related that their differences seem subtle, even negligible. Two such terms are periphrasis and circumlocution. At first glance, both refer to ways of speaking or writing that are not direct. However, they differ in usage, intent, and context. Understanding the difference between periphrasis and circumlocution helps improve clarity in both writing and speech. This topic explores these terms in depth, making the distinction clearer and more accessible to language learners and enthusiasts alike.
Definition and Meaning
What Is Periphrasis?
Periphrasis refers to the use of multiple words to express something that could be stated more simply or directly. It is often used deliberately for stylistic or rhetorical purposes. Periphrasis may appear in poetry, formal speech, or when a speaker wants to add elegance or politeness to their language.
- Example: Saying the father of my children instead of my husband.
- Example: Saying a person of interest instead of suspect.
Periphrasis can reflect a cultural or social choice to avoid bluntness. It is not inherently negative and may enhance the tone or formality of language.
What Is Circumlocution?
Circumlocution, on the other hand, involves talking around a subject, often avoiding the precise term or direct answer. It is frequently used when the speaker is uncertain, uncomfortable, or deliberately trying to be vague or evasive. Circumlocution can also result from a lack of knowledge about the correct word.
- Example: Saying the thing you use to cut food instead of knife.
- Example: Saying the opposite of under instead of over.
While periphrasis can be intentional and stylistic, circumlocution is often associated with avoidance, confusion, or evasion.
Purpose and Usage
Intent Behind Periphrasis
The intent of periphrasis is usually stylistic or rhetorical. Writers or speakers use it to create emphasis, elegance, or a sense of formality. It can also be used to soften the impact of a statement or to conform to social or cultural norms. In literature, periphrasis may help maintain rhythm or meter in poetry or enhance the richness of descriptive prose.
For example, in classical literature, authors might describe the sun as the golden orb that lights the heavens rather than simply the sun. This adds a poetic flavor and deepens imagery.
Intent Behind Circumlocution
Circumlocution often arises from discomfort, evasion, or lack of vocabulary. A speaker may use circumlocution to avoid offending someone, to obscure the truth, or because they cannot recall the correct term. In political language, it may be used to avoid making clear statements or promises.
It can also be humorous or clumsy in casual conversation, especially among language learners. A learner might say the machine you use to dry your hair instead of hairdryer.
Examples in Everyday Language
Common Periphrasis
- He passed away instead of he died.
- The man who resides upstairs instead of my neighbor.
- The beverage of the gods for wine.
Common Circumlocution
- The thing you use when it rains instead of umbrella.
- That round object with hands on it that tells time instead of clock.
- A place where people get their education instead of school.
In these examples, periphrasis sounds more formal or elegant, while circumlocution often sounds hesitant or uncertain.
Grammatical and Stylistic Contexts
Periphrasis in Grammar
In grammatical terms, periphrasis can refer to verb constructions that use multiple words where a single inflected form would suffice. English uses periphrasis often in verb tenses:
- He will go (periphrastic future tense) vs. Latin ibit.
- She is going instead of simply goes in certain contexts.
This is especially common in analytic languages like English, which rely more on word order and auxiliary verbs rather than inflections.
Circumlocution in Communication
Circumlocution plays a key role in conversation analysis. It often indicates that the speaker is unsure, trying to be polite, or avoiding sensitive topics. It can be a sign of linguistic politeness or intentional ambiguity.
In teaching English as a second language (ESL), circumlocution is often used as a communication strategy when learners do not know the precise term. It allows them to keep the conversation going by describing the concept instead of pausing or giving up.
Emotional and Social Implications
Periphrasis as a Social Tool
Using periphrasis can indicate a desire to be respectful or diplomatic. For example, in job interviews or formal writing, candidates may use periphrasis to sound more polished or tactful. Saying I was let go rather than I was fired softens the impact and maintains dignity.
Circumlocution as Avoidance
Circumlocution may reflect anxiety, embarrassment, or even dishonesty. It is common when discussing taboo subjects, avoiding blame, or trying to sidestep awkward topics. It can also signal evasion, especially in politics or public relations.
However, not all circumlocution is negative. It may also serve to cushion the impact of hard truths or preserve harmony in delicate situations.
Clear Comparison
Side-by-Side Overview
| Aspect | Periphrasis | Circumlocution |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Use of indirect or roundabout expressions for stylistic effect | Talking around a word or concept, often due to discomfort or uncertainty |
| Purpose | Formality, politeness, rhetoric | Vagueness, evasion, politeness |
| Common Contexts | Poetry, literature, formal speech | Casual speech, evasive communication |
| Example | The evening of life for old age | The thing that cuts paper for scissors |
When to Use Each
When Periphrasis Is Appropriate
Use periphrasis when you want to add elegance, formality, or poetic flavor to your writing or speech. It is suitable for literary settings, speeches, or diplomatic language. It also helps soften blunt or sensitive statements.
When Circumlocution Is Useful
Circumlocution can be useful for language learners or when dealing with topics that are taboo, sensitive, or hard to express. However, overuse may cause confusion or come across as evasive.
While both periphrasis and circumlocution involve using more words than necessary, they serve different linguistic and communicative purposes. Periphrasis is often used for stylistic, rhetorical, or formal reasons, while circumlocution is usually the result of uncertainty, politeness, or avoidance. Recognizing the difference between periphrasis and circumlocution enhances your understanding of nuanced language use, whether in writing, speech, or language learning. Mastery of both can improve clarity, tone, and effectiveness in communication.