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Definitions

sidestep

[sahyd-step] / ˈsaɪdˌstɛp /
VERB
dodge
Synonyms
STRONGEST
avoid bypass duck evade fudge skirt
STRONG
ditch elude escape juke pussyfoot shake shirk weasel
WEAK
dance around get around get out of give the slip go around put the move on shake off skip out on
Antonyms
STRONGEST
face meet take on

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But quibbling over individual op-eds let him sidestep some uncomfortable introspection.

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

“To try and sidestep Rubio while he is secretary of state is downright foolish and bound to backfire,” said Rick Herrero, the executive director of the Cuba Study Group, a Washington-based policy and advocacy group.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Saudi Arabia’s efforts to sidestep the standstill at the Strait of Hormuz appear to be bearing fruit.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

Some schools follow them enthusiastically, while others soften or sidestep them.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

Instead, when asked a question, he simply responded with a nifty sidestep or a question of his own.

From "Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures" by Kate DiCamillo

Vocabulary lists containing sidestep

"Enabling or Disabling?" and "This I Believe"

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