beat around the bush
Meaning
To avoid saying something directly; to speak indirectly or evasively instead of getting to the point.
Origin
From hunting: people would literally beat bushes to flush birds out, while someone else made the catch—doing activity around the target instead of addressing it directly.
Notes
Often mildly critical or impatient, implying someone is being evasive. Common in conversation and meetings when urging directness; informal to neutral register.
Examples
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Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you really think.
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The lawyer kept beating around the bush instead of answering the judge's question directly.
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If you're going to quit, don't beat around the bush—just say it.
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He beat around the bush for ten minutes before finally admitting he broke the vase.
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We don't have much time, so please don't beat around the bush in your update.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: usually “beat around the bush” (sometimes “beat about the bush” in BrE). Verb inflects: beats/beat/was beating around the bush. Often used with “don’t/stop.”
Synonyms
- prevaricate
- hedge
- dodge the issue
- talk around it
- avoid the point
Antonyms
- get to the point
- be direct
- speak plainly
- come straight out with it