sidestep the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sidestep the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to avoiding or evading a particular issue or challenge instead of addressing it directly. Example: "Instead of confronting the issue head-on, he chose to sidestep the problem and focus on less contentious topics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It is understandably hard for secular observers to sidestep the problem of belief.

The New York Times

Second, can the church really sidestep the problem of historical fact?

The New York Times

Very long Blair-size gaps raise just as many eyebrows, as does the decision to sidestep the problem and stop at one child.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

If you can sidestep the problem of belief — and the related politics, which can be so distracting — it is easier to see that the evangelical view of the world is full of joy.

The New York Times

Roughly, we need to adhere to the principle that free variables ought to remain free; when an occurrence of a variable is threatened to become bound by a substitution, simply perform enough α-conversions to sidestep the problem.

SEP

In the light of the failure of such analytical-style definitions it is tempting to try to sidestep the problem of providing a theoretical account of the concept of corruption by simply identifying corruption with specific legal and/or moral offences.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Gesture-driven screens sidestep the problems of wear and tear that plague standard touch screens, problems like broken joysticks and dirt on the screens.

The New York Times - Tech

This would sidestep the problems that faced Wilson's DEA; the first incumbent, George Brown, later admitted that: "I think it is a pity that we didn't produce a blueprint setting out precisely what we wanted to achieve".

The Economist

In fact, proponents of medical savings accounts even extolled them as a way to sidestep the problems of managed care, because people who use them can go to doctors of their choosing whenever they want, and still save money by paying part of the cost with untaxed income.

The New York Times

You can sidestep the problems associated with sewing two windows by cutting only an opening for the clickwheel.

WikiHow

Anything else is just sidestepping the problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sidestep the problem", ensure that the context makes it clear why the problem is being avoided and whether this is a strategic decision or an act of negligence.

Common error

Be mindful of overusing "sidestep the problem", especially in formal writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes imply a lack of responsibility or thoroughness. Consider more direct alternatives if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sidestep the problem" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action taken to avoid or evade a particular issue. As per Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. The examples in Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts where direct confrontation is avoided.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sidestep the problem" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe the act of avoiding a particular issue rather than directly addressing it. Ludwig's analysis and examples from reputable sources, like The New York Times and The Guardian, confirm its correct usage across various contexts, particularly in news and scientific domains. While offering a clear meaning, it is important to consider if avoiding the issue is the optimal approach, as there are situations when facing the problem head-on would be more beneficial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evade the difficulty

Replaces "problem" with "difficulty" offering a more general sense of something challenging that needs to be avoided.

dodge the issue

Uses "dodge" as a more active form of avoidance, implying quick maneuvering to evade a question or responsibility.

skirt around the issue

Implies moving around the core of the problem without ever directly engaging with it.

circumvent the obstacle

Focuses on bypassing an obstacle, suggesting a strategic maneuver to avoid something blocking progress.

bypass the complication

Replaces "problem" with "complication", which softens the negative connotation of the situation.

avoid the predicament

Uses "predicament" to describe a difficult or unpleasant situation that is being avoided.

sidestep the concern

Replaces "problem" with "concern", suggesting an attempt to avoid something that causes worry or unease.

duck the challenge

Uses "duck" to convey an attempt to quickly avoid a confrontation or challenge.

get around the matter

Suggests finding a way to not deal directly with something, often by using an indirect method.

gloss over the matter

This implies superficially addressing an issue, minimizing its importance and avoiding in-depth discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "sidestep the problem" in a sentence?

You can use "sidestep the problem" to indicate avoiding a difficult issue. For example: "Instead of addressing the core issues, the committee chose to "sidestep the problem" and focus on short-term solutions."

What's a less common way to say "sidestep the problem"?

A less common but similar phrase is "evade the difficulty", which suggests avoiding something challenging.

What does it mean to "sidestep the problem"?

To "sidestep the problem" means to avoid dealing with it directly, often by finding a way around it or ignoring it.

Is it better to "sidestep the problem" or to confront it?

Whether it's better to "sidestep the problem" or confront it depends on the situation. Sometimes, avoiding a minor issue can save time and resources. However, for significant problems, directly addressing them is usually more effective in the long run.