hedge around
C1 formal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To talk around a subject without giving a straight answer.
Literal meaning: To place a hedge (a row of bushes) all around something, enclosing it.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
formal
To avoid addressing a subject directly; to speak evasively or with deliberate vagueness.
"The minister kept hedging around the question of budget cuts instead of giving a clear answer."
Grammar: inseparable
2 C1
idiomatic
formal
To surround a topic or issue with qualifications and conditions, making it difficult to pin down a clear position.
"The report hedged around the conclusion with so many caveats that readers were left confused."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used in journalism and political commentary. Typically followed by a noun referring to an issue or topic ('hedge around the question'). More formal than 'beat around the bush'.
Commonly used with
issue question topic commitment answer problem
Forms
Base
hedge around
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hedges around
he/she/it
Past simple
hedged around
yesterday
Past participle
hedged around
have + pp
-ing form
hedging around
continuous
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