The term "long way around" refers to taking a route or approach that is lengthy, indirect, or unnecessarily complex to reach a destination or achieve a goal. It involves opting for a more circuitous course or method instead of choosing a more direct and efficient option.
The phrase is often used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it implies physically traveling a longer distance to reach a point rather than taking a shorter and more straightforward route. Figuratively, it suggests adopting a convoluted or complicated approach when there is a simpler and more efficient alternative available.
In a literal sense, undertaking the long way around may involve traveling through multiple cities, taking detours, or navigating through obstacles that prolong the journey. This could be due to factors such as road closures, congestion, or simply choosing to explore different places along the way.
In a figurative sense, taking the long way around refers to adopting an indirect or complicated method to accomplish a task or solve a problem. This could involve excessive planning, overthinking, or getting caught up in unnecessary processes. It often implies wasting time and resources unnecessarily, instead of choosing a more direct and efficient route.
Overall, "long way around" denotes opting for a less practical and more complicated path, either physically or metaphorically, when there are simpler and more effective options available.
