circumvent the process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "circumvent the process" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to avoiding or bypassing a procedure or system, often in a context where such action is not encouraged or is seen as negative. Example: "In an attempt to expedite the project, some team members tried to circumvent the process, which led to confusion and errors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

If you try to circumvent the process, that's a recipe for disaster.

The Guardian

"If there are people with strong incentives to circumvent the process, it can be done," he said.

The New York Times

In the second season, impatient with the political and bureaucratic hurdles to this incredibly modest goal, Leslie tried to circumvent the process by hiring private builders who accidentally hurt her friend Andy.

The Washington Post

Democrats Again Block Vote on Bolton Nomination Senate Democrats blocked a vote on the nomination of John R. Bolton to be ambassador to the United Nations, raising the possibility that President Bush will circumvent the process and appoint Mr. Bolton when Congress recesses.

The New York Times

But after watching a new op-doc on texting while walking (part of a feature started this year by our new video editor, Jason Spingarn-Koff) and reading many impassioned comments, I've decided to circumvent the process and issue an immediate verdict on text-walking.

The New York Times

"Members of Hantz Woodlands have been able to circumvent the process that many others of our city have to follow.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"It is not the decision for activist E.P.A. employees to decide to circumvent the processes established in the Clean Water Act," he said.

The New Yorker

I don't think voters will be impressed by circumventing the process".

The New York Times

"It was clear in the analysis that some people sort of sneaked in and circumvented the process by providing false trademark data," said Roland LaPlante, chief marketing officer for Afilias.

The New York Times

She said in the letter that with changes made to the foreign intelligence law after the Sept. 11 attacks, the eavesdropping operations of the N.S.A. "can and should" be covered by court-approved warrants, "without circumventing" the process.

The New York Times

While the investment arm is separate than the banking team, the company would likely be unhappy about Spotify circumventing the process and avoiding an IPO.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "circumvent the process", ensure it's clear why the process is being avoided. Is it for efficiency, or is there a more questionable motive? The context often carries a negative connotation.

Common error

Be cautious of using "circumvent the process" when a more neutral term like "expedite" or "streamline" would be more appropriate. "Circumvent" often implies a deliberate avoidance that may be seen as underhanded.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "circumvent the process" functions as a verb phrase where "circumvent" is the verb and "the process" is the direct object. It describes the action of avoiding or finding a way around a particular procedure or system. Ludwig AI validates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "circumvent the process" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of avoiding or bypassing a procedure. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's important to be mindful of its potential negative connotations. Alternatives such as "bypass the procedure" or "evade the system" may be more appropriate depending on the context. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the reasons for the avoidance and the potential implications, as it often implies a deviation from established norms that requires careful consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bypass the procedure

This alternative focuses on the act of going around a specific set of steps.

sidestep the regulations

This suggests a deliberate act of avoiding rules or guidelines.

skirt the protocol

This option implies avoiding something, often due to its complexity or difficulty.

evade the system

This conveys the idea of escaping or dodging a structured framework.

avoid the established method

This phrase emphasizes the departure from a conventional or accepted way of doing something.

get around the requirements

This alternative focuses on finding a way to meet demands in an unconventional manner.

dodge the formalities

This implies avoiding official procedures or customs.

find a loophole in the procedure

This suggests exploiting an ambiguity or exception to avoid a process.

short-circuit the standard process

This option highlights the act of disrupting a normal, orderly sequence of actions.

leapfrog the conventional route

This evokes the image of skipping over established steps to reach a goal more quickly.

FAQs

How can I use "circumvent the process" in a sentence?

You can use "circumvent the process" to describe actions that bypass established procedures, as in: "In an attempt to expedite the project, some team members tried to circumvent the process, which led to confusion and errors."

What can I say instead of "circumvent the process"?

Alternatives include "bypass the procedure", "evade the system", or "get around the requirements" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to "circumvent the process"?

While often carrying a negative connotation, "circumvent the process" can sometimes describe innovative problem-solving where traditional methods are ineffective. However, ensure the context is clear to avoid misinterpretation.

Which is correct, "circumvent the process" or "bypass the process"?

Both "circumvent the process" and "bypass the process" are grammatically correct. "Circumvent" often suggests avoiding something problematic, while "bypass" simply means going around something.