Beat around the bush

Origin: The idiom "Beat around the bush" traces its origins to medieval hunting practices, where hunters would beat bushes and shrubs to drive birds or small game out into the open. Not directly addressing the subject but rather skirting around it, often due to hesitancy or avoidance. The phrase gained popularity in the 16th century to describe avoiding direct communication or delaying the main point of a conversation. It underscores the idea of speaking indirectly or vaguely instead of addressing an issue or question directly, often out of discomfort, politeness, or reluctance to confront the topic head-on.

Examples

• Despite knowing the answer, she continued to beat around the bush instead of admitting her mistake.
• In his speech, the politician beat around the bush, avoiding any direct mention of the economic crisis.
• Rather than giving a straightforward response, he beat around the bush, leaving everyone confused.
• During the meeting, she beat around the bush about the budget cuts, never addressing the actual figures.
• He tends to beat around the bush when discussing personal issues, making it hard to understand his true feelings.
• The interviewee beat around the bush, trying to sidestep questions about his previous employment.
• Instead of providing clear instructions, the manager beat around the bush, resulting in a lack of direction for the team.
• When asked about her plans for the future, she beat around the bush, not wanting to reveal her intentions.
• The author beat around the bush in the novel, making it difficult to grasp the main theme.
• During negotiations, he beat around the bush, avoiding any commitment to a specific deal.