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hem and haw
/hɛm ænd hɔː/◆idiom
to hesitate or speak evasively
When asked about his decision, he just hemmed and hawed without giving a clear answer.
He avoided giving a direct answer by speaking vaguely and hesitating.
informal
To hesitate or speak in an evasive or indecisive manner, often by making non-committal sounds or vague statements.
She hemmed and hawed for minutes before finally admitting she didn't like the gift.
She hesitated and spoke vaguely for a long time before finally admitting she didn't like the gift.
The politician hemmed and hawed when asked about the scandal, refusing to give a straight answer.
The politician avoided giving a direct answer about the scandal by speaking evasively.
This phrase is often used to describe someone who is avoiding giving a clear or direct answer.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Context
This phrase is typically used in informal conversations to describe someone who is avoiding giving a clear answer.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While this phrase is useful for describing hesitation, overusing it can make your speech sound repetitive.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from the sounds 'hem' and 'haw,' which are non-committal vocalizations used when someone is hesitating or avoiding a direct answer. The phrase has been in use since at least the 19th century.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts to describe someone who is being evasive or indecisive in their speech.
English Dictionary