circumvent — to avoid or get around something, especially a rule or restriction, in a clever way
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to avoid or get around something, especially a rule or restriction, in a clever way
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsɜːrkəmvent/
Example Sentences
- The clever student circumvented the 'no phones' rule by hiding a smartwatch under his sleeve.
- Hackers often try to circumvent security systems to gain unauthorized access.
- My cat has learned to circumvent the pet gate by jumping over the couch.
circumvent
VERB[/ˈsɜːrkəmvent/]
to avoid or get around something, especially a rule or restriction, in a clever way

Instead of climbing the locked gate, the smart hiker simply walked through the grass to circumvent the obstacle.

CIRCUM(around) + VENT(come) — the spy had to VENT(come) in a wide CIRCUM(circle) along the wall to successfully circumvent the deadly red lasers.

Despite the tall fence built to prevent escapes, the clever dog dug a deep tunnel to circumvent the barrier.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'circumvenire,' combining 'circum' (around) and 'venire' (to come). The word originally meant to surround or encircle, later developing the figurative sense of avoiding or getting around something through clever means.
Breakdown
circum- (around) + vent (from Latin venire, to come) + -ion (noun suffix, though modern usage typically omits the suffix) = circumvent (to go around or bypass)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The clever student circumvented the 'no phones' rule by hiding a smartwatch under his sleeve.”
“Hackers often try to circumvent security systems to gain unauthorized access.”
“My cat has learned to circumvent the pet gate by jumping over the couch.”
“The company tried to circumvent environmental regulations by relocating their factory.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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