"Beat around the bush.” It means “To avoid talking directly or clearly about something, often because it's uncomfortable or difficult.” This idiom is often used to describe situations where someone is being evasive or indirect in their communication. It's like they're circling around the topic, rather than addressing it head-on. The phrase is thought to have originated from hunting, where beaters would hit the bushes to scare out birds, rather than directly targeting them. Similarly, when someone beats around the bush, they're not tackling the issue directly, but rather dancing around it. This idiom can be useful in a variety of situations, such as in business meetings, personal conversations, or even in writing. By recognizing when someone is beating around the bush, you can encourage them to be more direct and clear in their communication. For instance: Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you really think about my idea.