The usual character of human testimony is substantial truth under circumstantial variety.
Paley.

We must therefore distinguish between the essentials in religious worship . . . and what is merely circumstantial.
Sharp.

Tedious and circumstantial recitals.
Prior.

Circumstantial evidence (Law), evidence obtained from circumstances, which necessarily or usually attend facts of a particular nature, from which arises presumption. According to some authorities circumstantial is distinguished from positive evidence in that the latter is the testimony of eyewitnesses to a fact or the admission of a party; but the prevalent opinion now is that all such testimony is dependent on circumstances for its support. All testimony is more or less circumstantial. Wharton.

Syn. -- See Minute.