What does “To beat around the bush” mean?
The phrase "to beat around the bush" means "to avoid a question" or "to avoid getting to the point." It is used when someone is speaking in a vague or indirect manner, intentionally skirting around the main topic or question at hand. Instead of addressing the issue directly, they provide unnecessary details, go off on tangents, or talk about unrelated matters. This phrase is often used to express frustration or impatience with someone who is not being straightforward or upfront in their communication.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
Stop beating around the bush and answer the question.
Example
He always beats around the bush whenever I ask him about his plans.
Example
Instead of beating around the bush, just tell me the truth.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Avoiding a direct answer
Stop beating around the bush and answer the question.
He always beats around the bush whenever I ask him about his plans.
- 2Being indirect or evasive
Instead of beating around the bush, just tell me the truth.
She tends to beat around the bush when discussing sensitive topics.
- 3Using circumlocution or excessive detail
The politician beat around the bush during the interview, never giving a straight answer.
Don't beat around the bush with unnecessary explanations, just get to the point.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The origin of the phrase "to beat around the bush" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from hunting. In medieval hunting, beaters would use sticks to beat the bushes and flush out the game. However, some hunters would hesitate or delay in actually beating the bushes, causing the game to escape. This hesitation or delay came to be associated with avoiding the main point or being indirect.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "to beat around the bush" is typically used within a sentence to describe someone's behavior. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "to beat around the bush" is not offensive. It is a common idiom used to describe someone who is avoiding a question or being indirect.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "to beat around the bush" is commonly used by English speakers of all ages and backgrounds. It is a well-known idiom that can be understood by a wide audience.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "to beat around the bush" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is used in English-speaking regions worldwide.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- avoid the question
- evade the issue
- dodge the query
- skirt around the topic
- sidestep the inquiry
Antonyms
- answer the question
- address the issue
- respond to the query
- confront the topic
- face the inquiry
