skirting: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
IntermediateNeutral to formal, depending on context
Quick answer
What does “skirting” mean?
The act of going around or avoiding something, especially an issue or obstacle.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The act of going around or avoiding something, especially an issue or obstacle.
Also refers to a narrow board fixed to the base of a wall in architecture, or generally something that borders or edges.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'skirting board' is common for the architectural element, while American English typically uses 'baseboard'. The verb form is similar in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral in both; no strong positive or negative connotations unless context implies evasion.
Frequency
More frequent in British English due to the common use of 'skirting board'; in American English, the verb usage is comparable but the noun form is less common.
Grammar
How to Use “skirting” in a Sentence
skirting [object]skirting around [object]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “skirting” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He is skirting the main problem in his report.
- They were skirting the muddy path to keep their shoes clean.
American English
- She is skirting around the issue during discussions.
- The driver skirted the pothole to avoid damage.
adverb
British English
- He walked skirting close to the wall for support.
- The bird flew skirting the treetops.
American English
- She answered skirting around the direct question.
- The car drove skirting the curb carefully.
adjective
British English
- The skirting board in the hallway needs repainting.
- We chose a white skirting trim for the room.
American English
- His skirting comments avoided the controversial topic.
- The skirting design was minimalist and modern.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Avoiding direct discussion of sensitive topics in meetings or negotiations.
Academic
Referring to methodological approaches that circumvent limitations or avoid core problems.
Everyday
Common in home improvement contexts, such as installing or painting skirting boards.
Technical
In carpentry or architecture, pertaining to boards that cover the joint between wall and floor.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “skirting”
- Using 'skirting' as a standalone noun in American English without 'board', where 'baseboard' is preferred.
- Mispronouncing the vowel sound, e.g., as /skɪrtɪŋ/ instead of /skɜːrtɪŋ/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it can be neutral; for example, in architecture, 'skirting board' has no negative connotation, and avoiding physical obstacles is practical.
Yes, but it's less common; in general contexts, it can refer to the act of avoiding, but in American English, 'baseboard' is preferred for the architectural term.
In British English, it's pronounced /ˈskɜːtɪŋ/, with a non-rhotic vowel similar to 'bird'.
A common mistake is using it interchangeably with 'skirt' (clothing) or misapplying it in American English where 'baseboard' is standard for wall boards.
The act of going around or avoiding something, especially an issue or obstacle.
Skirting is usually neutral to formal, depending on context in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “skirting the issue”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a skirt that goes around the body; similarly, skirting involves going around issues or physical edges.
Conceptual Metaphor
Avoidance as physical circumvention; moving around rather than through a problem or space.
Practice
Quiz
What is a primary meaning of 'skirting' in figurative use?