beat around the bush crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find the most accurate and comprehensive solutions for the clue "beat around the bush crossword", designed to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We provide answers across various letter counts, along with explanations to broaden your crossword vocabulary.
Solutions for "beat around the bush crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HEDGE: To avoid giving a direct answer or commitment; to limit or qualify something.
EVADE: To escape or avoid (someone or something), especially by cleverness or trickery.
ELUDE: To skillfully escape from or avoid (a danger, enemy, or pursuer).
SHIRK: To avoid or neglect (a duty or responsibility).
8 Letters
SIDESTEP: To avoid or bypass (something), often a difficulty or an issue.
10 Letters
CIRCUMVENT: To find a way around an obstacle or difficulty.
11 Letters
PREVARICATE: To speak or act in an evasive way; to avoid the truth or lie.
More About "beat around the bush crossword"
"Beat around the bush" is a common English idiom that means to discuss a topic without coming to the point; to speak indirectly or evasively. In the world of crosswords, this phrase is a classic clue for answers that convey the sense of avoiding, evading, or being circuitous. It often appears in puzzles to test a solver's understanding of idiomatic expressions and their direct synonyms.
When you encounter this clue, think about words that describe indirectness in action or speech. Crossword setters love to use such idiomatic clues because they allow for a wide range of potential answers, from simple verbs to more complex, multi-syllabic words, all sharing the core meaning of avoidance or a lack of straightforwardness. Understanding the nuances of the idiom is key to unlocking the correct solution.
The beauty of this clue lies in its versatility. Depending on the puzzle's difficulty and the available letter count, the answer could be a concise five-letter word like HEDGE, or a lengthy thirteen-letter word like PREVARICATE. Always consider the context of the puzzle, the number of letters provided, and any intersecting words to narrow down your options for this tricky but rewarding clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Understand the Idiom: For clues like "beat around the bush," always start by fully grasping the idiomatic meaning. This will help you brainstorm a wider range of synonyms related to avoidance, indirectness, or procrastination.
- Consider Word Lengths: Once you understand the meaning, look at the number of letters required. This is often the most crucial hint. Start by listing synonyms and then check if their lengths match the grid.
- Check Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from other clues, use them as anchor points. These intersecting letters will significantly narrow down the possible answers, helping you confirm or rule out potential solutions quickly.
- Think of Figurative Language: Crossword clues often use figurative language. "Beat around the bush" is a prime example. Train yourself to think beyond literal meanings to find the metaphorical synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "beat around the bush" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "beat around the bush" typically clues words that mean to be indirect, evasive, or to avoid the main point. It suggests a lack of directness in communication or action.
How can I identify answers related to "beat around the bush" in crosswords?
Look for synonyms of avoidance, evasion, indirectness, or procrastination. Common answers include verbs like HEDGE, EVADE, SIDESTEP, CIRCUMVENT, or PREVARICATE. Always consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you already have in the puzzle.
Are there common word lengths for "beat around the bush" clues?
Answers for this clue can vary significantly in length. While shorter options like HEDGE (5 letters) or EVADE (5 letters) are common, longer words such as SIDESTEP (8 letters), CIRCUMVENT (10 letters), or even PREVARICATE (13 letters) can also be valid. The length depends on the specific puzzle and setter's choice.