beat around the bush
Say it: beat around the BUSH /ˌbiːt əˌraʊnd ðə ˈbʊʃ/ · idiom
What “beat around the bush” means
Avoid saying what you mean directly.
More precisely: To avoid saying something directly, especially something awkward.
Example: “Stop beating around the bush and tell me if I got the job.”
When to use it
In everyday conversation, when someone avoids an awkward point. Asking them to stop can sound impatient.
Similar words
hedge, dodge the issue, prevaricate
Where it comes from
From bird hunting, where beaters struck bushes to drive birds out for others.
Quick check
Asked whether you damaged the car, you talk about the weather and traffic instead of answering. Which phrase describes this?
make small talk or beat around the bush?
Show the answer
beat around the bush
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