roundabout

[round-uh-bout, round-uh-bout, round-uh-bout] / ˌraʊnd əˈbaʊt, ˈraʊnd əˌbaʊt, ˈraʊnd əˌbaʊt /

ADJECTIVE

indirect

Synonyms

STRONG

circular collateral oblique

WEAK

ambiguous circuitous circumlocutory deviating devious discursive evasive meandering obliquitous periphrastic taking the long way tortuous

Antonyms

STRONG

direct

WEAK

honest straightforward

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Instead, the no-audits pledge followed a roundabout path.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

“This is such a roundabout, long-winded way of doing a rejection,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 11, 2026

It was a more unpredictable and roundabout route than any offensive coordinator would dare draw.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

"Whereas if you're going to a roundabout with GPS, your brain is not actively engaged in that at all."

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

“I would’ve appreciated your directness, instead of this roundabout game you’re playing with me.”

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu