言げんを左さ右ゆうにする

expression, suru verb (irregular)

equivocate; beat around the bush

Used when someone avoids giving a clear answer, often by changing the subject or speaking ambiguously. A set phrase with a slightly formal or literary feel.

• 彼かれは質しつ問もんに直ちょく接せつ答こたえず、言げんを左さ右ゆうにしてごまかした。

  He didn't answer the question directly; he equivocated and dodged it.

• 言げんを左さ右ゆうにせず、はっきりと意い見けんを述のべてください。

  Please state your opinion clearly without beating around the bush.