hedge
Limit or qualify a statement by conditions or exceptions; avoid commitment
Examples
In a meeting
“Stop hedging and give us a clear timeline for the deliverable.”
Over coffee
“Whenever I ask about his plans, he hedges and changes the subject.”
Why this word
avoid
Hedge means using evasive language to avoid commitment, while avoid simply means staying away from
evade
Hedge specifically means qualifying statements to avoid commitment, while evade is general avoidance of questions or responsibility
hesitate
Hedge involves deliberately ambiguous language for protection, while hesitate is pausing due to uncertainty
Usage tip
Use to describe evasive communication. Often negative, suggesting someone won't commit or be direct.
Etymology
Old English 'hecg' — fence or boundary (metaphorically protecting oneself)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.