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periphrasis

[pəˈrɪfrəsɪs]

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

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'

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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.'