Meaning & Explanation
The idiom “Beating around the bush” means avoiding the main topic or speaking indirectly instead of addressing something directly.
Hindi Equivalent:
“बेकार की बातें करना”
Literal Meaning: “To talk about useless things”
Detailed Explanation
This expression highlights:
- Avoidance: Deliberately not getting to the point
- Indirect Communication: Talking in circles around an issue
- Hesitation: Fear of addressing something uncomfortable
The phrase originates from hunting practices, where hunters would beat bushes to scare out birds rather than confronting them directly.
Real-Life Examples
1. Workplace Feedback
English: “Instead of saying I was late, my boss kept beating around the bush about ‘time management’.”
Hindi: “मेरे बॉस ने सीधे न कहकर कि मुझे देर हो गई, ‘टाइम मैनेजमेंट’ के बारे में बेकार की बातें कीं।”
2. Relationship Talks
English: “She kept beating around the bush instead of saying she wanted to break up.”
Hindi: “उसने ब्रेकअप कहने की बजाय बेकार की बातें करना जारी रखा।”
3. Political Speeches
English: “The minister beat around the bush when asked about corruption charges.”
Hindi: “मंत्री ने भ्रष्टाचार के आरोपों के बारे में बेकार की बातें करके सवाल से बचा।”
Psychological & Social Insight
Why people beat around the bush:
✓ Conflict Avoidance: Fear of negative reactions
✓ Politeness Norms: Cultural preference for indirectness
✓ Power Dynamics: Avoiding confrontation with superiors
Negative Effects:
✗ Wastes time
✗ Creates confusion
✗ Delays problem-solving
Usage Tips
Use when criticizing indirect communication Effective in professional/personal contexts Helps encourage directness
Similar Expressions
| English | Hindi |
|---|---|
| “Dodging the issue” | “मुद्दे से बचना” |
| “Hemming and hawing” | “हिचकिचाना” |
| “Circumlocution” | “घुमा-फिराकर बात करना” |
Cultural Perspectives
Global communication styles:
- Japanese: “Tatemae” (建前) – social facade vs. true feelings
- British: Known for indirect communication
- Israeli: “Dugri” – valued directness
Reflection Questions:
- When have you beaten around the bush? Why?
- How can we communicate more directly while being respectful?
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