circumnavigate
Find a way around an obstacle
Examples
In a meeting
“We can circumnavigate the budget restriction by reallocating from another project.”
Over coffee
“Let's circumnavigate the construction and take the back roads.”
Why this word
avoid
Circumnavigate means to travel completely around something, while avoid means to stay away from it
bypass
Circumnavigate implies going around the entire perimeter, while bypass suggests finding an alternate route past
navigate
Circumnavigate specifically means to go around completely, while navigate is general travel or route-finding
Usage tip
Use when describing avoiding an obstacle by going around it rather than through it
Etymology
Latin 'circum' (around) + 'navigare' (to sail)
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Related words
circumvent
To find a way around an obstacle or restriction.
diagnose
To identify the cause or nature of a problem through examination.
reconcile
Make two conflicting things compatible or resolve a disagreement
recourse
A source of help or option available in a difficult situation
finesse
To handle a situation skillfully and tactfully, often using subtle maneuvering
eschew
To deliberately avoid or stay away from something