To beat around the bush

Meaning

To avoid saying something directly

Examples

• John: 'Stop <b>beating around the bush</b>; just tell me what happened.'<br>
• Alice: 'Okay, the project is behind schedule due to unforeseen circumstances.'
• John: 'To be frank, I think it needs significant improvement.'
• Alice: 'Don't <b>beat around the bush</b>; John, what's your opinion on the recent proposal?'<br>