sidestep

American  

[sahyd-step] / ˈsaɪdˌstɛp /

verb (used without object)

sidestepped, sidestepping

1. to step to one side.

2. to evade or avoid a decision, problem, or the like.

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verb (used with object)

sidestepped, sidestepping

1. to avoid or dodge by stepping aside.

2. to evade or avoid (a decision, problem, or the like).

sidestep British  

/ ˈsaɪdˌstɛp /

verb

1. to step aside from or out of the way of (something)

2. (tr) to dodge or circumvent

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noun

1. a movement to one side, as in dancing, boxing, etc

Other Word Forms

• sidestepper noun

Etymology

Origin of sidestep

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

Even Apple, which has largely sidestepped the AI spending debate, can’t escape entirely as its impressive iPhone revenue was offset by worries about surging memory prices.

From Barron's

So why do fiscal policymakers on both sides of the political aisle sidestep the issue?

From Barron's

The message from Russia to law enforcement entities in both countries sidestepped the more formal red notice and red diffusion process, and asked for "any useful information" about Aramyan as well as his whereabouts.

From BBC

Investing in AI without actually investing in it is one way to sidestep concerns among some investors that a bubble is building for the hot technology.

From MarketWatch

It also sidesteps the substance that gives people real confidence at work: generous health care, equal pay, respect for lawful labor practices, nondiscriminatory hiring and promotions.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• avoid
• bypass
• duck
• evade
• fudge
• skirt