Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

beat-the-bushes

idiomatic expression

/biːt ðə ˈbʌʃɪz/

Definition

To search thoroughly or actively for something, usually in a persistent manner.

Examples

She beat the bushes for job opportunities after graduation.
The detective decided to beat the bushes to gather more clues about the case.
After several weeks of beating the bushes, they finally found a suitable location for their new store.

Meaning

The phrase refers to the act of trying to find or secure something, often by exploring various options or areas, especially when the desired outcome isn’t easy to obtain.