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Umwegen

Umwege is the plural form of the German noun Umweg, which denotes a detour or an indirect route. In everyday use, an Umweg describes a path that avoids a direct route due to terrain, obstacles, or planning considerations.

Figuratively, the term is used to describe non-linear paths in life, travel, or problem solving. Taking an

In culture, Umwege has been adopted as a title or motif in German-language media, signaling themes of

Etymology and usage note: the word combines um “around” with Weg “way.” It contrasts with a direct

See also: Umweg, detour.

Umweg
can
be
practical,
for
example
when
a
direct
route
is
blocked,
or
symbolic,
representing
alternative
approaches,
delays,
or
moments
of
reconsideration
that
eventually
lead
to
a
goal.
indirectness,
chance,
or
reformulation
of
plans.
It
appears
in
literature,
film,
and
music
as
a
metaphor
for
the
twists
and
turns
of
personal
or
historical
journeys.
route
and
carries
connotations
of
extra
effort,
time,
or
exploration
beyond
the
simplest
path.
The
plural
form
Umwege
is
used
when
referring
to
more
than
one
detour
or
to
detours
as
a
category
or
concept.