Pronunciation: [bˈiːts ɐɹˈa͡ʊnd ðə bˈʊʃ] (IPA) 
The phrase "beats around the bush" means to avoid getting to the point or to speak vaguely. The correct spelling of the word "beats" is /biːts/ and can also be written as "b-e-a-t-s". The word "around" is spelt /əˈraʊnd/ which means "on every side". The word "bush" is /bʊʃ/ which means a shrub or a thicket. The phrase is commonly used in English language and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
The idiom "beats around the bush" refers to the act of avoiding or deflecting a direct or straightforward approach to a subject or topic when speaking or communicating with others. When someone beats around the bush, they tend to speak in a vague, evasive, or indirect manner, oftentimes avoiding the main point or purpose of the conversation. Instead of getting to the heart of the matter, they engage in unnecessary digressions, use excessive preamble, or focus on irrelevant details, causing the conversation to become long-winded and convoluted.
The phrase alludes to the practice of hunters beating the area around a bush in order to flush out hidden animals. Similarly, beating around the bush involves going around the central point and metaphorically searching for an alternative route that skirts the main subject. This idiom is commonly used to express frustration or impatience with someone's lack of directness, as it implies a desire for straightforwardness and clarity.
People often beat around the bush for various reasons, such as a fear of confrontation, a desire to soften the impact of their words, or a lack of confidence in expressing their true thoughts or opinions. However, this indirect communication style can create confusion, misunderstandings, and inefficiency, as it prolongs discussions unnecessarily. Therefore, understanding this idiom allows individuals to recognize when someone is deviating from the main point or purpose of a conversation and helps encourage more direct and meaningful communication.
