The antonyms for the phrase "circles back" include words such as diverge, depart, move forward, progress, and advance. These terms signify a movement away from a previous point or idea, rather than returning to it. When someone chooses to diverge from a conversation topic, for example, they are moving away from it in a different direction rather than returning to it. Similarly, to move forward or progress suggests growth and advancement, whereas circling back denotes a repetition or revisiting of what has already been discussed. Therefore, choosing the correct antonym can help to convey a different tone and intention in communication.