beat around the bush

Short definition: The phrase beat around the bush means to avoid saying something directly, often by talking indirectly or vaguely, especially when the topic is uncomfortable, sensitive, or difficult to discuss openly.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the phrase beat around the bush? This idiom is very common in everyday English, especially in conversations about honesty and communication. To beat around the bush means avoiding the main point instead of speaking directly. You will often hear it in workplaces, arguments, and situations where someone hesitates to be clear. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with long definitions and realistic examples.

Forms: beat around the bush (fixed idiom)
Related: avoid v., indirect adj., hint n.
Syllable: beat a-round the bush

1. (Idiom) To avoid saying what you really mean and not talk about the main issue directly.

   To beat around the bush means talking in a vague or indirect way instead of getting to the point. People often do this when they feel uncomfortable, nervous, or afraid of causing conflict. The listener may feel confused or impatient because the main message is delayed. This idiom is commonly used to encourage honesty and clarity.

   Stop beating around the bush and tell me what the real problem is.
   He kept beating around the bush instead of explaining why the project failed.
   She was clearly beating around the bush because she did not want to hurt his feelings.

   Synonyms: avoid the point, speak indirectly, dodge the issue, talk vaguely, skirt the topic, evade the question, hint without saying, stall verbally, circle the issue, ramble, delay the truth, hedge
   Antonyms: get to the point, speak directly, be honest, be straightforward, say it clearly, address the issue, be blunt, come out with it, speak plainly, be clear, face the issue, tell the truth

2. (Idiom) To delay giving bad news or an uncomfortable answer by talking about less important things.

   Beat around the bush is often used when someone avoids delivering bad news. Instead of stating the problem clearly, they talk about unrelated details first. This can make the situation more stressful for the listener. The phrase highlights hesitation rather than dishonesty.

   The doctor beat around the bush before finally explaining the diagnosis.
   Don’t beat around the bush—just tell me if I got the job or not.
   He beat around the bush for ten minutes before admitting the mistake.

   Synonyms: delay the news, avoid being direct, soften the message, stall the answer, postpone the truth, talk around it, hesitate to say, dance around the issue, ease into bad news, delay disclosure, avoid confrontation, talk in circles
   Antonyms: be upfront, speak plainly, deliver the news directly, be honest immediately, say it outright, face it head-on, tell it straight, state the facts, cut to the chase, be clear from the start, come clean, be open