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Region: US | Usage example: We beat the bushes for volunteers before the event.

Beat the bushes

Meaning

Search thoroughly, especially for people or resources.

Usage

Used when describing a wide, energetic search.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Hunting practice of beating bushes to flush game.

Used in American hunting reports in the nineteenth century.

Related Idioms

Beat a dead horse

Waste effort on something already decided.

Beat a path to your door

Have people seeking you out eagerly.

Beat around the bush

Avoid stating something directly.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.