P. J. O'Rourke

Preachers at black churches are the last people left in the English-speaking world who know the schemes and tropes of classical rhetoric: parallelism, antithesis, epistrophe, synecdoche, metonymy, periphrasis, litotes - the whole bag of tricks.

American Comedian

Prefer simpler words for clear, concise communication, especially in formal writing or speeches.

Avoid in Brevity

Periphrasis can add style in literature or speeches, but be mindful not to confuse your audience.

Literary Devices

Use periphrasis to draw attention or add emotional weight to a statement.

Emphasize Emotion

Use periphrasis to make technical or complex ideas more accessible to general audiences.

Replace Technical Terms

Use periphrasis when you want to lessen the impact of something unpleasant or harsh.

Softening Impact

Periphrasis often adds a level of respect or formality to conversations.