Definition
拐弯抹角 is a four-character fixed expression that literally describes moving along a winding path ('go around corners'). In everyday use, it means to speak indirectly, to hint at something without stating it plainly — the opposite of 直说 (to say directly). It can be used as a predicate or adverbial, often with 地 or in the pattern 拐弯抹角地 + verb.
f.e.
(figurative) to beat around the bushto speak indirectly(literal) to follow a winding path
Examples
- ，拐弯抹角。Nǐ yǒu huà jiù zhí shuō, bié guǎi wān mò jiǎo de.If you have something to say, just say it directly — don't beat around the bush.
- 拐弯抹角。Tā guǎi wān mò jiǎo de ànshì wǒ gāi líkāi le.He hinted indirectly that I should leave.
- 拐弯抹角，。Zhè tiáo shānlù guǎi wān mò jiǎo, kāichē yào xiǎoxīn.This mountain road winds and turns — drive carefully.
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