ENGLISH
REFERENCE

talk in circles

idiom
Meaning

To argue a point by repetition of the same theme, sometimes by using different words, but without making any progress.


Examples
SIMPLE

Stop talking in circles and tell me what you want.

CONTEXTUAL

We spent an hour discussing the budget, but we were just talking in circles without reaching a decision.

COMPLEX

The politician continued to talk in circles, skillfully avoiding a direct answer to the reporter's question about the scandal.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all talk and no cider

    All talk and no results.

  2. 02

    big talk

    Statements which are boastful or exaggerated.

  3. 03

    circle back

    To return to a previous location or state; to come back to.

  4. 04

    circle the drain

    To be in a rapid decline or in a state of downfall, especially as leading to an inevitable utter failure or destruction.

  5. 05

    circle the wagons

    To prepare to defend against an attack or criticism.

  6. 06

    coffee talk

    Informal conversation among friends or acquaintances, of the kind that occurs in a casual gathering where people sit together and drink coffee.

  7. 07

    come full circle

    To make a complete change or reform.

  8. 08

    full circle

    Through a cycle of transition, returning to where one started after gaining experience or exploring other things.

Last updated April 17, 2026