Meaning & Definition of Circumvent in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To avoid a problem or rule by cleverness or deceit.

  Example Sentence: They found a way to circumvent the regulation.

• Definition: To go around something in order to avoid it.

  Example Sentence: We can circumvent that issue by taking a different route.

• Definition: To bypass, outsmart, or overcome difficulties.

  Example Sentence: He managed to circumvent the security measures.

Etymology

Origin: Late Middle English: from Latin circumvent- 'surrounded' (from the verb circumvenire, from circum 'around' + venire 'come').

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• circumvent the law: To find a way to avoid obeying the law.
• circumvent the system: To outsmart the established processes or procedures.
• circumvent difficulties: To find ways to overcome challenges.

Translations

• Spanish: eludir

• French: contourner

• German: umgehen

• Russian: обойти

Related Words

• evade: To escape from or avoid something.

• bypass: To go around an obstacle.

• outwit: To gain an advantage over someone by being clever.

Slang Meanings of circumvent

• Meaning: Curve the rules

  Example Sentence: He's always looking for ways to curve the rules to save time.

• Meaning: Play the system

  Example Sentence: She knows how to play the system to get what she wants.