roundabout figure
Meaning
An approximate number or estimate that is not precise or exact.
Origin
The word "roundabout" itself comes from the idea of taking an indirect path, literally going "round about" something instead of straight through. By the 17th century, it was used as an adjective to describe anything indirect, circuitous, or not straightforward, whether it was a route, a conversation, or a method. When applied to a "figure" or number, it began to describe an amount that wasn't precise. Just as a roundabout route avoids a direct line, a roundabout figure avoids the exact, specific number, instead offering a general approximation. It’s a verbal shrug, admitting that precision isn't available or necessary, much like navigating a circular intersection rather than a straight road. This usage became especially common as a way to manage expectations in business and everyday discussions where exact data might be elusive.
Examples
- She gave a roundabout figure of attendance, suggesting somewhere between 200 and 250 people showed up.
- When asked about the project's total cost, the manager could only provide a roundabout figure, as many expenses were still pending.