Way around

Meaning

The idiom "way around" means to do something in a roundabout way or by a circuitous route. It can also refer to approaching a task or problem from an indirect angle, or to exploring different options or possibilities before making a decision.

Usage

• John decided to explore the city on foot and ended up taking a way around the main road due to construction.
• After trying several different approaches to solving the problem, Jane finally found the solution by going way around the issue.
• The company wanted to reduce costs but wasn't sure how, so they went way around and outsourced some of their operations.
• Instead of taking a direct route, the tourists decided to go way around and take in the scenic views along the way.
• The restaurant was out of bread, so the chef had to go way around and make a batch from scratch.

Roots and History

The idiom "way around" has been used since at least the 13th century in English. Its earliest known use can be traced back to Middle English, where it was used as a preposition meaning "around". Over time, the phrase evolved to mean "by or through a roundabout route" or "in a roundabout way". The idiom has remained largely unchanged in meaning and usage over time, although its popularity may have fluctuated depending on the context.

Synonyms in English

• Around the bend: This expression means that something is just around the corner or about to happen.
• By a roundabout way: This phrase means to take a long and winding road or approach a task from a different angle.
• In a circuitous manner: This idiom refers to doing something in a roundabout or indirect way.

Synonyms in other languages

• En rondjeje (Dutch): This expression means to take a trip in a circular motion, similar to "going for a spin".
• Alrededor del círculo (Spanish): This phrase means "around the circle" or "in a circle", similar to "going around and round".
• Poule en queue (French): This idiom refers to doing something in a roundabout way, similar to "circumventing".
• 走一步，再反一步 (Chinese): This expression means to take one step forward, then reverse or retreat, similar to "going around and about".
• אתה ניתן משלם בעלתך כספדורס מקשבן שלטו נכנסת (Hebrew): This phrase means "You are allowed to enter a place with all kinds of doors and windows".

Similar Idioms

• with a bang

• weather the storm

• wag the dog