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Simple English definitions for legal terms
periphrasis
Read a random definition: Motion For New Trial
A quick definition of periphrasis:
Term: PERIPHRASIS
Definition: Periphrasis means using more words than necessary to say something. It's like taking a long way around to get to your destination instead of going straight there. People use periphrasis when they want to sound fancy or avoid saying something directly. Another word for periphrasis is circumlocution.
Example: Instead of saying "I'm sorry I'm late," someone might use periphrasis and say "Please forgive my tardiness, as unforeseen circumstances caused me to arrive later than anticipated."
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Periphrasis is a way of speaking or writing that uses a roundabout or indirect approach instead of a direct one. It is also known as circumlocution.
Example 1: Instead of saying "I am going to the store," someone might use periphrasis and say "I am going to the place where I can buy groceries."
Example 2: Instead of saying "He died," someone might use periphrasis and say "He passed away."
These examples illustrate how periphrasis uses more words than necessary to convey a message. It can be used to soften the impact of a statement or to make it sound more polite or formal. However, it can also make communication more confusing or unclear.