Locution means "a style of speech," "a manner of oral expression," "phraseology," "a particular form of expression": "The locution of native-born speakers differs from that of immigrants." "The locution of deaf persons sometimes seems strained and awkward." Circumlocution derives its meaning from its prefix, circum-, an element meaning "around" and "about." That is, circumlocution is locution that is roundabout, indirect, or wordy."At this point in time" is a circumlocution for now or today.
Dictionary of problem words and expressions. Harry Shaw. 1975.