periphrasis Definition
- 1the use of indirect and circumlocutory speech or writing
- 2an indirect way of expressing something
Using periphrasis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "periphrasis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Instead of saying 'I am sorry,' he used periphrasis and said 'I apologize for my behavior.'
Example
The writer's use of periphrasis made the text more difficult to understand.
Example
Politicians often use periphrasis to avoid answering difficult questions.
periphrasis Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for periphrasis
Antonyms for periphrasis
Phrases with periphrasis
an indirect way of expressing something
Example
The author's use of periphrastic expressions made the text more challenging to read.
a roundabout way of speaking or writing
Example
The politician's periphrastic circumlocution was frustrating for the audience, who wanted a direct answer.
a writing style characterized by the use of indirect and circumlocutory language
Example
The author's periphrastic style made the text more challenging to read.
Origins of periphrasis
from Greek 'periphrazein', meaning 'to express in a roundabout way'
Summary: periphrasis in Brief
Periphrasis [pəˈrɪfrəsɪs] is the use of indirect and circumlocutory speech or writing. It is often used to avoid directness or clarity, as in 'Politicians often use periphrasis to avoid answering difficult questions.' Periphrasis can also make text more challenging to read, as in 'The writer's use of periphrasis made the text more difficult to understand.'
