take a winding road; roundabout; beat around the bush
Meanings
3 senses · 7 examplesverb
to take a circuitous route; to turn corners
Describes the physical action of moving along a winding path, often used for vehicles or walking.
The car turned down a winding road and drove into the village.
We walked through the narrow alleys, turning corner after corner, for a long time before we found that shop.
adjective
winding; tortuous; full of twists and turns
Describes the physical condition or characteristic of a road or path.
This road is so winding and difficult to walk on.
The narrow mountain trail twists and turns; people unfamiliar with it can easily get lost.
adjective
roundabout; circuitous; beating around the bush
Figurative usage describing indirect communication or evasive behavior. Often carries a mild negative connotation suggesting lack of frankness.
If you have any opinions, just say them directly; don't beat around the bush like this.
He always speaks in a roundabout way, making it impossible to guess his real thoughts.
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Just make your request directly; there's no need to hint at it so circuitously.