Talk in circles Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To speak in a way that is indirect, repetitive, or avoids answering directly, making it hard to reach a clear point.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and often slightly critical. Used when someone avoids giving clear answers or keeps repeating themselves. Common in meetings, debates, or when someone's nervous or hiding something. Compare to 'beat around the bush', but 'talk in circles' emphasizes being confusing and repetitive.
Example Sentences
Whenever I ask him about his plans, he just talks in circles.
basic
It's frustrating when politicians talk in circles and don't answer the question.
basic
Stop talking in circles and tell me what really happened.
basic
He keeps talking in circles whenever the topic gets serious.
natural
After an hour, we realized the manager was just talking in circles to avoid making a decision.
natural
I got so confused because she was talking in circles the whole time.
natural