körülírt

Körülírt is a Hungarian adjective that describes speech or writing that uses circumlocution or roundabout phrasing rather than stating things directly. It refers to descriptions, explanations, or expressions that avoid the point in favor of lengthy, indirect wording. The term is commonly used in linguistic, literary, and journalistic contexts to critique style or clarity.

Etymology and form: körülírt is formed from the prefix körül- meaning around or about and the verb írni (to write), with the past participle suffix -t. The related noun is körülírás, which denotes circumlocution or a circumlocutory way of speaking. The word thus literally conveys the sense of “written around” the subject.

Usage and nuance: In Hungarian, körülírt typically carries a negative or cautionary nuance, signaling that the phrasing is needlessly indirect or evasive. It can be used descriptively to characterize a text or speech, or as a critical label in essays, reviews, and rhetorical analysis. While often perceived as a flaw, circumlocutory style can also be employed for emphasis, politeness, or stylistic effect, depending on context.

Examples: körülírt megfogalmazás (circumlocutory phrasing); körülírt beszéd (circumlocutory speech). A "körülírt" megfogalmazás nehezíti a lényeget, mert túl sok körítéssel vezet el az állítástól. The term is most commonly used within Hungarian writing but can appear in translated discussions of style.

See also: körülírás (circumlocution).

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