Other forms: side-stepping, side-stepped, side-steps
To side-step is to step aside to avoid, or to dodge an awkward question. Side-step the issue.
In rugby it is a genuine skill and a compliment rather than a criticism. To side-step a question is noticed by everybody and challenged by almost nobody.
1verbside-stepTo step aside to avoid, or to dodge an awkward question.
“He side-stepped it three times and was never pressed.”
side-step is an action.