He fights shy of talking about his past.
fight shy
idiomTo avoid meeting at a close distance or at close quarters; to keep out of reach, to avoid.
The politician fought shy of answering questions about the budget during the press conference.
Although the evidence was compelling, the committee fought shy of making a final decision until they had reviewed every document.
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bun fight
A debate or disagreement, usually with several parties involved, often political in nature.
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few cards shy of a full deck
Mentally deranged; demented; insane.
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fight a losing battle
To attempt a task or other endeavor in which there is no chance that it will succeed.
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fight fire with fire
To respond to an attack with a similar or identical counter-attack (e.g. to respond to gunfire with reciprocal gunfire).
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fight fires
To deal with urgent matters and minor emergencies rather than longer-term work.
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fight for one's life
To be in danger of dying (as a result of injury, illness etc.).
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fight one's corner
To vigorously promote or defend one's interests, views, etc.
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shy bladder
An inability to urinate in the presence of others.