Synonyms for periphrasis
Most common
All synonyms
Noun
1. Circumlocution — the use of a longer expression instead of a shorter one with a similar meaning, for example "I am going to"…
Other
periphrase, ambage formal, ambages dated
Definitions
- n. 1
The use of a longer expression instead of a shorter one with a similar meaning, for example "I am going to" instead of "I will".
Near-synonyms: circumlocution, loquaciousness
Related words
- Word family
- periphrase periphrastic
- Is a kind of
- wording phrasing
Forms
- Plural
- periphrases → circumlocutions, ambages…
Choose the right word
Circumlocution and periphrasis are roundabout ways of expressing thought; circumlocution is the more common, periphrasis the more technical word. Constant circumlocution produces an affected and heavy style; occasionally, skilful periphrasis conduces both to beauty and to simplicity.
J. C. Fernald, English Synonyms and Antonyms (1914)
Example sentences
- loquaciousness His loquaciousness is almost a compulsion.
Popularity over time
| Word | 1850 → 2019 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| periphrasis | steady | |
| circumlocution | steady | |
| loquaciousness | rising | |
| periphrase | falling |
Use in printed books, per decade from 1850 to 2019.
By length
- 6 letters
- ambage
- 7 letters
- ambages
- 10 letters
- periphrase
- 14 letters
- circumlocution, loquaciousness