Don’t beat around the bush
Meaning: To speak in a roundabout, indirect or misleading way.
When do we use it?
Use this expression when someone is trying to avoid answering a question you have asked.
How do we use it?
We use this phrase in the following ways:
- You will have to learn to speak clearly about what you want. You won’t succeed if you keep beating around the bush.
- Will you please stop beating around the bush and get to the point?
- I know this discussion is an uncomfortable one, but instead of beating around the bush, let’s come to the point and get over with it.
- Don’t beat around the bush and tell me frankly what you think of my proposition.
Similar Expressions
- To be non-committal.
- To be evasive.
- To evade the issue.
- To sit on the fence.
Example in English Conversations
A) Greg: Can you tell me how far we are with the new building?
B) Peter: We are currently trying to find a way to get cheaper building products
C) Greg: But how far are we with the building? How far are we from finishing?
D) Peter: Our trucks are struggling to get through the border at the moment as well.
E) Greg: Stop beating around the bush and tell me where we are and when we will be done.