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Definition of Beat around the bush
1. Verb. Be deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or withhold information.
Generic synonyms: Misinform, Mislead
Derivative terms: Equivocation, Equivocation, Equivocation, Equivocator, Paltering, Prevarication, Prevarication, Prevarication, Prevaricator, Tergiversation
Definition of Beat around the bush
1. Verb. (idiomatic) To treat a topic, but omit its main points, often intentionally. ¹
2. Verb. (idiomatic) To delay or avoid talking about something difficult or unpleasant. ¹
¹ Source: wiktionary.com
Lexicographical Neighbors of Beat Around The Bush
Literary usage of Beat around the bush
Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:
1. The Virginian: A Horseman of the Plains by Owen Wister (1904)
"The Virginian smiled guiltily at her through his crimson. " I've no doubt you
can beat around the bush very well with men," said Mrs. Henry. ..."
2. Lawyers' Reports Annotated by Lawyers Co-operative Publishing Company (1916)
"A. I told him that he knew the amount, and it wasn't necessary—well, I don't know
but what I used the words he said; beat around the bush. ..."
3. Changing Africa: The First Literary Generation of Independent Cape Verde by Gerald M. Moser (1992)
""Well, not to beat around the bush, and not to keep you people waiting, I have
come to tell you, Mr. and Mrs., to give me dear Mimi in marriage, ..."
4. Transactions of the American Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists by American Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (1907)
"Dr. Harlan also spoke of impacted bowel being a cause of dislocated kidney, but
it seems to me he had to beat around the bush a good deal in reaching a ..."
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