Beat around the bush

/biːt əˈraʊnd ðə bʊʃ/

(Pronounced: BEET uh-round thuh BOOSH)

🔊 Hear it on YouGlish

Definition

Meaning: To avoid addressing the main topic or issue directly; to speak indirectly or evasively.

Signification: Le terme désigne une personne qui tourne autour du pot, qui n'aborde pas un sujet de manière directe.

Note: The phrase "beat around the bush" or "beat about the bush" often implies frustration when someone fails to get to the point, especially in serious or time‐sensitive situations.

Word Analysis

In French: Tourner autour du pot ou tergiverser
Synonyms: Avoid the point ♦ Dodge ♦ Stall
Antonyms: Be direct ♦ Get to the point ♦ Be straightforward

Example Dialogue

Tebo: "So, did you tell the manager you’re quitting yet?"
Limpho: "Well, I tried, but I sort of beat around the bush about it."
Tebo: "Limpho, just be honest. You can’t avoid it forever!"
Limpho: "I know, I know. I'll do it."

Etymology

Origin: The phrase "beat around the bush" or "beat about the bush" originates from hunting practices in medieval England. Hunters would beat bushes to flush out game birds, but the direct goal was to catch the birds, not simply disturb them. Over time, the expression came to symbolise avoiding the main point or delaying action.

Audience

The term beat around the bush can be used in both casual and professional conversations. It is commonly used when someone avoids being direct or clear about a topic. This phrase often carries a slightly critical tone and is most suitable when addressing delays or evasive behavior.

When to use: This idiom is appropriate in discussions where clarity or decisiveness is needed. While not vulgar, it can be mildly critical and should be used carefully in professional or sensitive contexts.

Dictionary Meaning

Here's an official definition of beat around the bush by The Cambridge Dictionary

News snippet

"Let's not beat around the bush. South Africa's future looks grim and many residents are considering leaving our shores for greener pastures. But serial entrepreneur Alan Knott-Craig says the decision should not be made in a panic. In his latest mantra booklet, he tells us just how to do that."

Read the full article at The Daily Maverick

WordReference

Follow the forum discussion on the expression 'beat about the bush' at Wordreference.com

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Joke

Employee: Excuse me, sir. May I speak with you for a moment?

Boss: Of course! Come on in. What can I do for you?

Employee: Well, sir, as you know, I’ve been part of this prestigious firm for over ten years.

Boss: Yes, I’m aware of that.

Employee: I won’t beat around the bush—I’d like a raise. Currently, four companies are after me, so I decided to speak to you first.

Boss: A raise? I’d love to give you one, but this really isn’t the right time.

Employee: I understand your position, and I know the current economic downturn has had a negative impact on sales. However, I believe my hard work, proactiveness, and loyalty to this company for over a decade deserve consideration.

Boss: Taking all of that into account, and considering I don’t want to risk a brain drain, I’m willing to offer you a ten percent raise and an extra five days of leave. How does that sound?

Employee: Fantastic! That’s a deal. Thank you, sir!

Boss: Before you go, just out of curiosity, which companies were after you?

Employee: Oh, the Electric Company, the Gas Company, the Water Company, and the Mortgage Company!

Common Idioms and Expressions

Beat around the bush: To avoid addressing the main topic or issue directly.
Not beat around the bush: To be direct and get straight to the point.
Cut to the chase: Stop wasting time and focus on the main point.
Get to the point: Speak clearly and address the matter directly.
Talk in circles: To discuss a topic repeatedly without reaching a conclusion.
Dodge the issue: To avoid dealing with a topic or question directly.
Hem and haw: To hesitate or be indecisive when speaking.
Spill the beans: To reveal a secret or tell the truth directly.

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