beat about the bush

(verb) to discuss a topic without being specific about anything

Example Sentences:

Our boss always beats about the bush when he has to tell us bad news.

Daughter: Mom, can I go camping with Susan’s family?
Mom: I’m not sure…..
Daughter: I really want to go.
Mom: Well…..
Daughter: All of my friends are going! I want to go too!
Mom: Um…..
Daughter: Stop beating about the bush and just tell me if I can go or not!
Mom: Uh….

From the News:

Beating around the Bush

Media:

Similar idioms:

1. beat around the bush
2. beat one’s head against the wall
3. blue in the face
4. be banging one’s head against the wall
5. call one’s dogs off
6. kick something around
7. bad blood