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Equivocate vs Circumlocutory - What's the difference?

equivocate | circumlocutory |

As a verb equivocate

is to use words of equivocal or doubtful signification; to express one's opinions in terms which admit of different senses, with intent to deceive; to use ambiguous expressions with a view to mislead; as, to equivocate is the work of duplicity.

As an adjective circumlocutory is

characterised by circumlocution; periphrastic; verbose.

equivocate

English

(Webster 1913)

Alternative forms

* (archaic)

Verb

(equivocat)
  • To use words of equivocal or doubtful signification; to express one's opinions in terms which admit of different senses, with intent to deceive; to use ambiguous expressions with a view to mislead; as, to equivocate is the work of duplicity.
  • All that Garnet had to say for him was that he supposed he meant to equivocate . -.
  • To render equivocal or ambiguous.
  • He equivocated his vow by a mental reservation. -.

    Synonyms

    * prevaricate * evade * shuffle * quibble * dodge * adumbrate

    See also

    * prevaricate

    circumlocutory

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Characterised by circumlocution; periphrastic; verbose.
  • The officials set to work in regular circumlocutory order. -Chambers's Journal.

    Synonyms

    * circumlocuitous * circumlocutious * circumlocutional * circumlocutionary