Translation guide
The English idiom 'beat around the bush' means to avoid talking directly about a topic, often because it is uncomfortable or awkward. In Japanese, there is no single equivalent idiom, but several expressions and strategies convey the same idea of indirectness, hesitation, or avoiding the main point.
To express that someone is not getting to the point, often by talking about irrelevant things or being vague.
Literally 'to say indirectly'. This is a common and natural way to describe speaking in a roundabout way, often to be polite or avoid confrontation.
To express that someone is reluctant to state something outright, often due to nervousness or fear of the reaction.
There is no single Japanese idiom that perfectly matches 'beat around the bush'. Using a literal translation like 茂みの周りを叩く would be nonsensical. Instead, use the phrases above to describe indirect speech or hesitation.
In Japanese communication, indirectness is often valued as a form of politeness (e.g., using 遠回しに言う can be positive). However, 'beat around the bush' in English usually carries a negative connotation of being evasive or wasting time. Be aware of this nuance when choosing expressions.
Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you really think.
Direct request to stop being indirect.
He beat around the bush, but in the end he was against it.
Means 'not saying clearly'. It directly describes the act of avoiding clear statements, which is the essence of beating around the bush.
She beat around the bush and changed the subject.
Literally 'to avoid the main point'. A more direct description of the behavior, though slightly less idiomatic than the above.
He always beats around the bush when he talks.
Literally 'to muddy one's words'. It means to be evasive or ambiguous in speech, often to hide one's true feelings or avoid commitment.
He beat around the bush and didn't give a clear answer.
Means 'the preamble is long'. It describes someone who takes a long time to get to the point, often with unnecessary introductions or excuses.
He beats around the bush so much that I don't know what he wants to say.
He was beating around the bush, but finally told the truth.
Simply 'to hesitate'. While not a direct translation, it can be used when the beating around the bush stems from hesitation.
She hesitated and beat around the bush for a long time.
He always beats around the bush when I ask about his plans.
Using 言葉を濁す to imply evasiveness.