circular: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to Formal. Common in academic, business, and technical contexts.
Quick answer
What does “circular” mean?
having the shape of a circle.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
having the shape of a circle; moving in a circle
Describing something that involves a series of stages that return to the starting point (argument, process), or a printed document intended for widespread distribution.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant semantic differences. Slight preference in British English for 'circular' as a noun for a printed advertisement/distribution, where American English might use 'flyer' or 'bulletin' more commonly, but 'circular' is still understood.
Connotations
Both share the same primary and extended meanings, including the negative connotation of 'circular reasoning'.
Frequency
The word is used with similar frequency in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “circular” in a Sentence
be + circular (The argument is circular.)circular + noun (circular reasoning)verb + in + a circular + manner/pattern (to move in a circular pattern)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “circular” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- The fans were arranged circularly around the stage.
American English
- The planets move circularly around the sun.
adjective
British English
- The roundabout has a circular design.
- Her logic is frustratingly circular.
- We received a circular email about the new policy.
American English
- The track is perfectly circular.
- His reasoning became completely circular and unproductive.
- The office issued a circular memorandum.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Noun: 'We sent out a promotional circular to all our clients.' Refers to a mass-distributed document.
Academic
Adjective: 'The study's methodology was criticised for its circular logic.' Used in philosophy, logic, and criticism.
Everyday
Adjective: 'We took a circular walk around the lake.' Describing shape or route.
Technical
Adjective: 'The machine uses a circular motion to grind the material.' Common in engineering, physics, design.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “circular”
- Using 'circular' to describe a long, winding but not closed path (use 'meandering' or 'winding').
- Confusing 'circular reasoning' with 'recursive reasoning'.
- Incorrect plural: 'circulars' for the noun form (not 'circular').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Round' is a more general, everyday term for a 2D or 3D shape without corners. 'Circular' is more precise, often implying a perfect 2D circle and used in formal, geometric, or metaphorical contexts.
In formal logic and argumentation, yes. Circular reasoning (begging the question) is a fallacy where the conclusion is assumed in the premises. It doesn't provide new evidence.
No, the word is an adjective and a noun. The verb form related to the concept is 'circulate' (e.g., to circulate a document).
Use it to refer to a printed notice, letter, or advertisement intended for distribution to many people (e.g., 'A circular about the meeting was posted on the board').
having the shape of a circle.
Circular is usually neutral to formal. common in academic, business, and technical contexts. in register.
Circular: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɜː.kjə.lər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɝː.kjə.lɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A circular argument (an argument that assumes its conclusion).”
- “To run/go around in circles (to achieve nothing despite effort).”
- “To come full circle (to return to the original state or position).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CIRCUS tent, which is often round (CIRCular). The performers run in circles inside it, and flyers (circulars) are handed out.
Conceptual Metaphor
ARGUMENTS ARE PATHS. A circular argument is a path that leads back to its starting point without making progress.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'circular' most likely to be a noun?