Irse por las ramas
Example: No te vayas por las ramas y dime la verdad ahora.
Definition
"Irse por las ramas" is a Spanish expression meaning to avoid the main topic by talking about irrelevant details or digressing. It is used when someone does not address the core issue directly, as in the example: 'No te vayas por las ramas y dime la verdad ahora.'
Etymology
The phrase "irse por las ramas" literally translates to 'to go through the branches.' It originates from the idea of a person or animal moving away from the main trunk of a tree into the branches, symbolizing moving away from the main point. This metaphor has been used in Spanish to describe avoiding the central topic by diverting attention.
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"Irse por las ramas" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C1) - parte 1", containing 120 commonly used expressions.
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to beat around the bush