circumvent
To find a way around an obstacle or restriction.
Examples
In a meeting
“We circumvented the bottleneck by routing requests through a backup server.”
Over coffee
“She circumvented the long line by ordering ahead on the app.”
Why this word
avoid
Circumvent implies cleverly going around an obstacle or rule, while avoid just means staying away from something
bypass
Circumvent suggests strategic maneuvering around restrictions, while bypass is more neutral about going around something
evade
Circumvent suggests clever or strategic avoidance, while evade often implies escaping obligation and carries more negative connotation
Usage tip
Neutral in tone — it can mean clever problem-solving or rule-bending, depending on context.
Etymology
Latin circumvenire — circum (around) + venire (to come)
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Related words
diagnose
To identify the cause or nature of a problem through examination.
pivot
Change direction or strategy while maintaining a central focus
reconcile
Make two conflicting things compatible or resolve a disagreement
recourse
A source of help or option available in a difficult situation
bundle
To group multiple items or services together as a package
finesse
To handle a situation skillfully and tactfully, often using subtle maneuvering