Basic Details
Word: Circuitous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: A route or journey that is longer than it should be because it goes around in a roundabout way.
Synonyms: Indirect, roundabout, meandering
Antonyms: Direct, straight
Idioms and Phrases
- Circuitous route: This phrase is used to describe taking a longer way around to reach a destination instead of going straight there. Example: "We took a circuitous route to avoid the traffic jam."
- Beating around the bush: This idiom means to avoid getting to the main point, similar to being circuitous in conversation. Example: "Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you really think!"
Usage Examples
Example 1: The circuitous path through the forest made our hike much longer than we had planned.
Example 2: Instead of taking the direct road to the city, we ended up on a circuitous journey that included several detours.
Example 3: His explanation was circuitous, making it hard for us to understand the main idea.
Fun Fact
The word "circuitous" comes from the Latin word "circuitus," which means "to go around." It reflects how paths or journeys can loop and bend instead of going straight to the target.
Famous Quote
"Not all those who wander are lost." J.R.R. Tolkien - This quote refers to the idea that sometimes taking a circuitous route can lead to meaningful discoveries.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "circuitous" mean?
a) A straight path
b) A short journey
c) A roundabout route
d) A quick decision
Answer: c) A roundabout route
2. Which of these is a synonym of "circuitous"?
a) Direct
b) Indirect
c) Quick
d) Clear
Answer: b) Indirect
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "circuitous"?
a) Twisted
b) Meandering
c) Straight
d) Roundabout
Answer: c) Straight
4. Which sentence uses "circuitous" correctly?
a) She took a circuitous route to reach her friend's house.
b) The circuitous plan was simple and effective.
c) The circuitous dog barked loudly.
d) The cake was circuitous and sweet.
Answer: a) She took a circuitous route to reach her friend's house.
5. What does the idiom "beating around the bush" mean in relation to "circuitous"?
a) To get to the point quickly
b) To avoid the main idea
c) To move directly forward
d) To follow a strict path
Answer: b) To avoid the main idea
