hedge

/hˈɛd‍ʒ/

/ˈhɛdʒ/

Hedge

a row of closely-planted bushes or small trees that form a boundary, particularly on the edge of a garden, road, or field

synonyms : hedgerow

an intentionally noncommittal or ambiguous statement

synonyms : hedging

a thing or method that protects one against potential problems, particularly financial ones

synonyms : hedging

a linguistic device used to express uncertainty or vagueness, often through words or phrases that indicate a lack of commitment or certainty in one's statement

to hedge

[VERB]

MAIN VERB

avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)

synonyms : circumvent

minimize loss or risk

enclose or bound in with or as it with a hedge or hedges

synonyms : hedge in

hinder or restrict with or as if with a hedge

Examples

1. The company hedged its bets by developing a second line of products.

2. She hedged her bets by applying for various other jobs as well.

3. She stumbled off the balcony, but luckily, a hedge below her broke her fall.

4. While it's important to be supportive and involved in your friends' lives, it's also important to respect their privacy and maintain some space - after all, a hedge between keeps friendship green.

Nearby words