dodge the subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dodge the subject" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to describe an avoidance of an uncomfortable subject or topic. For example, "John started to dodge the subject when I asked him about his recent divorce."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Kalanithi himself had dodged the subject with patients.

The New Yorker

Even so, while projecting themselves as totally gay they still dodged the subject of bedroom proclivities.

The Guardian - Music

What did Robinson learn from Bowman? "I can't remember that far," Robinson said, dodging the subject the way a player might dodge a body check.

The New York Times - Sports

Major American environmental groups have dodged the subject of population control for decades, wary of getting caught up in the bruising politics of reproductive health.

The New York Times - Science

You dodged the subject in your 2004 memoir, "My Life," whose 957 pages didn't include any mention of DOMA, as Frank Rich noted in New York magazine last February.

The New York Times

It plans to double its production this year, to 1,000 megawatts, says its boss, Mike Ahearn.The nuclear option, againIn his election campaign Mr Obama dodged the subject of nuclear power.

The Economist

For well over a year, Donald Trump has dodged the subject of Russian interference in the 2016 election and potential charges of collusion and obstruction of justice.

The New Yorker

And Mr. Weiner dodged the subject entirely, saying through a spokesman that Mr. Bloomberg had sought innovative solutions to "big problems," leaving "big shoes for the next mayor to fill".

The New York Times

I know it sounds like I'm dodging the subject, but I don't have a favorite.

Huffington Post

Beating around the bush or dodging the subject will (1): scare your friend or family member ; or (2): give the impression that you're ashamed.

WikiHow

Some observers expect the court to dodge the issue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dodge the subject" when you want to convey a sense of skillful or intentional avoidance, especially in situations where directness is expected.

Common error

Don't use "dodge the subject" if you simply mean someone is avoiding a topic passively. "Dodging" implies a more active and often strategic maneuver to evade discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dodge the subject" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of deliberately avoiding a particular topic or issue. Ludwig's examples show its usage in news and media when describing someone skillfully evading a question or difficult matter.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dodge the subject" is a phrase used to describe the act of deliberately avoiding a particular topic or issue. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in news and media to depict someone skillfully evading a question or difficult matter. While appropriate for various contexts, it's important to use it when conveying intentional avoidance, not simple unawareness. Alternatives like "avoid the topic" or "sidestep the topic" can be used depending on the specific nuance required. Ludwig's examples provide valuable context for understanding the phrase's appropriate usage and potential alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoid the topic

Focuses on general avoidance without necessarily implying skillful maneuvering.

evade the issue

Emphasizes the act of escaping or eluding a problematic matter.

skirt around the issue

Implies addressing something indirectly, without confronting it head-on.

sidestep the topic

Suggests a deliberate move to avoid a direct discussion.

beat around the bush

Indicates indirectness and hesitancy in addressing the main point.

dance around the subject

Similar to 'skirt around', suggesting a playful or evasive approach.

hedge on the topic

Involves using ambiguous language to avoid commitment or directness.

equivocate about the subject

Highlights the use of vague or ambiguous language to conceal the truth or avoid a clear answer.

parry the question

Implies skillfully deflecting a question to avoid answering directly.

change the subject

Involves abruptly shifting the conversation to a different topic altogether.

FAQs

How can I use "dodge the subject" in a sentence?

You can use "dodge the subject" to describe someone skillfully avoiding a topic, such as, "The politician tried to dodge the subject of tax increases during the interview."

What's a similar phrase to "dodge the subject"?

Alternatives include "avoid the topic", "evade the issue", or "sidestep the topic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "dodge the subject" or "address the subject"?

Whether to "dodge the subject" or address it depends on the context. "Dodging" might be appropriate in sensitive situations, while addressing the subject is generally preferred for transparency and clarity.

What is the difference between "dodge the subject" and "ignore the subject"?

"Dodge the subject" implies an active effort to avoid a topic, whereas "ignore the subject" suggests a passive refusal to acknowledge it.