tiptoe around something

Definitie & Betekenis van "tiptoe around something "

to tiptoe around something

ZINSDEEL

to decide not to deal with a problem directly out of the fear that it may make things worse

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "tiptoe around something" and when to use it?

The idiom "tiptoe around something" derives from the literal act of walking softly and quietly on one's tiptoes to avoid making noise. It is used when people choose to be subtle, indirect, or circumspect in addressing a matter to avoid potential negative reactions.

tiptoe around somebody

to tiptoe around somebody

ZINSDEEL

to pay close attention to how to talk to someone or behave toward them because they can become offended or upset easily

to [tiptoe] around {sb} definition and meaning

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "tiptoe around someone" and when to use it?

The idiom "tiptoe around someone" originates from the literal act of walking quietly on one's tiptoes to avoid making noise. This expression is used when people handle interpersonal interactions with care, choosing to be subtle and indirect to prevent negative reactions or maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

Voorbeeld

It would be humorous if it weren't so sad the way Sarah tiptoes around her wife.

When it comes to giving constructive criticism, it's often better to tiptoe around the problem rather than being overly blunt.

When discussing her recent breakup, her friends tiptoed around the subject to avoid making her upset.

The students tiptoed around their teacher when asking for an extension on their assignment, fearing a stern response.

He tiptoed around the budget issue at the meeting, trying not to offend anyone with the proposed cuts.

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Definitie & Betekenis van "tiptoe around something "

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