Definitions
- Referring to a response that does not directly answer a question. - Describing a reply that avoids giving a clear or specific answer. - Talking about a statement that is evasive or unhelpful in addressing the issue at hand.
- Referring to a response that avoids addressing a difficult or sensitive issue. - Describing a reply that redirects the conversation away from a particular topic. - Talking about a tactic used to avoid answering a question directly.
List of Similarities
- 1Both involve avoiding a direct answer.
- 2Both can be used to deflect attention from a sensitive or difficult topic.
- 3Both can be frustrating for the person asking the question.
What is the difference?
- 1Tactic: Nonanswer is a failure to provide a direct answer, while sidestep is a deliberate attempt to redirect the conversation.
- 2Intent: Nonanswer may be unintentional or due to lack of knowledge, while sidestep is a conscious effort to avoid a topic.
- 3Degree: Sidestep is often more intentional and calculated than nonanswer, which may be accidental or due to confusion.
- 4Timing: Nonanswer can occur at any point in a conversation, while sidestep is typically used when a difficult question is asked.
- 5Connotation: Nonanswer can imply ignorance or incompetence, while sidestep can suggest evasion or dishonesty.
Remember this!
Nonanswer and sidestep are both words used to describe responses that avoid giving a direct answer to a question. However, the difference between them lies in their intent and execution. A nonanswer may be unintentional or due to a lack of knowledge, while a sidestep is a deliberate attempt to redirect the conversation away from a particular topic. While both can be frustrating for the person asking the question, sidestep is often seen as more intentional and calculated than nonanswer.
