To avoid or evade something, often a difficult situation, a question, or a responsibility, by moving to the side or taking an indirect approach. This can involve avoiding a direct confrontation, bypassing an obstacle, or skillfully navigating a challenge without directly confronting it. Sidestepping often implies a clever or strategic approach, utilizing cunning or resourcefulness to achieve a desired outcome while minimizing risk or difficulty. It can also signify an unwillingness or inability to directly address a situation, choosing instead to deflect or circumvent it.
Sidestepped meaning with examples
- The politician cleverly Sidestepped the reporter's pointed question about the scandal, offering vague platitudes instead. His refusal to provide a direct answer revealed his desire to avoid a damaging response, cleverly diverting attention to a less controversial topic. This allowed him to carefully dance around the issue, retaining some control.
- Facing mounting criticism, the company's CEO Sidestepped the public backlash by issuing a carefully worded statement that avoided taking any direct responsibility. They hoped this would minimize potential legal repercussions, deftly moving to the side. The ambiguous language shielded them from direct scrutiny.
- Instead of confronting the angry customer, the manager Sidestepped the immediate conflict by offering a refund and a sincere apology, a calculated strategy to avoid escalation. He was able to offer a resolution and leave the confrontation behind him. This showed a preference for de-escalation.
- During the negotiation, the union representative Sidestepped the company's offer of a wage freeze, focusing instead on improved benefits and better working conditions to try and make a better deal. She was able to use her bargaining skills to work towards a compromise. This highlighted her skill at maneuvering.
- The hiker Sidestepped the treacherous patch of ice on the mountain path, carefully altering their route to avoid a potential fall. He safely navigated the hazard, using his ability to change. This meant ensuring safety by avoiding direct contact with the danger.
Sidestepped Synonyms
averted avoided bypassed circumvented dodged ducked eluded evaded outmaneuvered relegated shirked shunned skirtedSidestepped Antonyms
addressed challenged confronted embraced encountered engaged faced tackledSidestepped Crossword Answers
5 Letters
GOTBY
6 Letters
EVADED DODGED ELUDED
7 Letters
AVERTED AVOIDED SKIRTED