roundabout是什么意思 roundabout的读音、翻译、用法

here are some possible ways to explain and provide examples of the word "roundabout" from different aspects:

1. Definition and usage as a noun: A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic moves in a counterclockwise direction around a central island, usually controlled by yield signs or traffic lights. Roundabouts are designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety compared to traditional intersections with stop signs or signals. In British English, a roundabout can also mean a large, circular road junction with several exits or lanes. Examples:

- The new roundabout near my house has reduced my commute time and accidents.

- At the roundabout, you should yield to traffic already in the circle and signal your intent to exit.

- The Magic Roundabout in Swindon is a famous example of a complex roundabout with five smaller circles interconnected.

2. Definition and usage as an adjective: Roundabout can also be used to describe something that is indirect, circuitous, or confusing. This sense often implies a lack of clarity, efficiency, or honesty. Roundabout can be preceded by "a" or "the" to denote a particular way or manner of doing something. Examples:

- He gave me a roundabout answer that didn't address my question directly.

- The roundabout route to the airport took us through several small towns and country roads.

- She took a roundabout approach to persuading him to lend her money, hinting at his generosity without asking outright.

3. Definition and usage as an adverb: Roundabout can also function as an adverb to modify a verb, meaning approximately, more or less, or indirectly. This usage can convey a sense of approximation, estimation, or uncertainty. Examples:

- The trip to the city took roundabout two hours due to heavy traffic and roadworks.

- We had to roundabout ask for directions since we didn't have a map or GPS.

- The translation was roundabout accurate, but some nuances were lost in the process.

4. Definition and usage as a preposition: Roundabout can be used as a preposition to mean on all sides of something, or in the vicinity of or near something. This usage is rare and mostly found in British English. Examples:

- They built a fence roundabout the garden to keep the deer out.

- The pub is located roundabout halfway between the two villages.

- The castle was surrounded roundabout by a moat and a wall.

5. Definition and usage in idiomatic expressions: Roundabout can be part of several idiomatic expressions or phrases that convey different meanings. Examples:

- Beat about/around the bush: to avoid or delay discussing a topic directly or honestly; to be indirect or evasive. Example: "Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you really think about my proposal."

- Go round the bend: to become crazy or lose one's mind; to go insane or mad. Example: "If I have to listen to this song one more time, I'll go round the bend."

- All around/about: to be everywhere or widespread; to affect all aspects or sides of something. Example: "The new regulations will have an all-around impact on the industry and its stakeholders."

- Round and round: to move or spin in a circular motion repeatedly; to go around or spiral. Example: "The children spun around and round on the merry-go-round until they got dizzy."

- By a roundabout way: to reach a destination or achieve a goal indirectly or with detours; to take a longer or more complex path. Example: "I got to the party by a roundabout way, walking through the park and taking a shortcut behind the shops."