Tiptoe around Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To walk very quietly on your toes, or to avoid dealing with a sensitive subject directly and carefully.
Usage & Nuances
Often metaphorical: 'tiptoe around a subject' means to avoid talking about something directly, usually because it is sensitive or uncomfortable. Used in both professional and informal contexts. The literal meaning, walking quietly, is less common.
Example Sentences
Please don't tiptoe around the problem. Just tell me the truth.
basic
The children tried to tiptoe around the house so they wouldn't wake their parents.
basic
I don't want to tiptoe around this conversation. Can we be honest?
basic
We all had to tiptoe around the subject of his job loss at the party.
natural
You can't just tiptoe around every disagreement—you need to speak up sometimes.
natural
If we keep tiptoeing around the issue, it will never get resolved.
natural