Circuitous
Adjective
Definition: (of a route or journey) longer than the most direct way.
Synonyms: Indirect, Roundabout, Meandering
Antonyms: Direct, Straight, Linear
- The hiker took a circuitous route to enjoy the scenic views.
- The politician used a circuitous argument to avoid giving a direct answer.
- Think of a circuitous route as taking more time and going off course, similar to a circuitous discussion that avoids the main point.
Etymology:
The word "circuitous" derives from the Latin word "circuitus", which means "going round".
Historical Usage:The term has been in use since at least the early 17th century to describe journeys or routes that deviate from the shortest or most direct path.
Related Idioms:
"Take the circuitous route"
Explanation:This phrase means to choose a longer or more roundabout path or method when there may be a shorter, more direct option available. It is often used figuratively to suggest a less efficient or indirect approach to achieving a goal.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "circuitous" with "circular".
Explanation:While the words "circuitous" and "circular" share some similarity in the sense of roundness, they have distinct meanings. "Circuitous" refers to a route or journey that is longer or more indirect, whereas "circular" generally suggests a shape or motion that is round or returning to the starting point.