periphrasis

Meanings

• figure of speech

  A figure of speech in which a long word or phrase is used in place of a shorter and simpler one to achieve clarity or emphasis.

  - "Instead of saying 'the act of speaking,' one might use the periphrasis 'the faculty of language'."

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Synonyms

beating around the bush , circumlocution

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Variants

List of all variants of periphrasis that leads to same result
periphrases , periphrasis

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Etymology

origin and the way in which meanings have changed throughout history.

From the Greek periphrazein, 'to speak around,' from peri, 'around,' and phrazein, 'to speak.'

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Trivia

Any details, considerations, events or pieces of information regarding the word

1. Periphrasis was a favorite rhetorical device of ancient Greek philosophers, such as Plato and Aristotle.

2. In modern English, the term 'periphrasis' is often used to refer to the use of overly complex or lengthy language, particularly in legal or academic contexts.

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Related Concepts

informations on related concepts or terms closely associated with the word. Discuss semantic fields or domains that the word belongs to

1. synonym: A word or phrase that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word or phrase. Synonyms are often used as periphrases.

2. euphemism: A mild or indirect word or expression used in place of one considered to be harsh, blunt, or offensive.

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Culture

Any cultural, historical, or symbolic significance of the word. Explore how the word has been used in literature, art, music, or other forms of expression.

Periphrasis has been used extensively in literature, particularly in ancient Greek and Roman texts, to add poetic and rhetorical flourish. In modern times, it is still used in formal and academic writing.

How to Memorize "periphrasis"

1. visualize
   

   - Visualize a speaker using a long, winding path to get around to the point they want to make, instead of taking the direct route.

2. associate
   

   - Associate the word 'periphrasis' with the image of a labyrinth or maze, which involves taking a long and winding path to reach a destination.

3. mnemonics
   

   - Remember the phrase 'a long way around' to help remember the meaning of periphrasis.

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