sidestep

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side·step / ˈsīdˌstep/ • v. (-stepped, -step·ping) [tr.] avoid (someone or something) by stepping sideways: as she walked she sidestepped the many cracks in the pavement. ∎ fig. avoid dealing with or discussing (something problematic or disagreeable): he neatly sidestepped the questions about riots. ∎  [intr.] Skiing climb or descend by lifting alternate skis while sideways on the slope.• n. a step taken sideways, typically to avoid someone or something.DERIVATIVES: side·step·per n.

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