get round

To spread among a number of people, as of news, rumors, etc. When news of this tax scandal gets round, your career in politics will be finished! I know that rumor's gotten round by now. My question is, how did it start? Keep it quiet, though, OK? I don't want news of my pregnancy to get round just yet.

get round (someone)

1. To persuade someone about something or persuade someone to do something, especially through the use of charm, flattery, or cajolery. If we play up the department's excellent productivity for the day, we might be able to get round the boss to let us take the afternoon off. I don't mind if you go for an ice cream, but you'd better get round your father first. Mom will never buy us these toys, but I'm sure we can get around Grandma!

2. To evade or circumvent the authority of someone. We'll have to find a way to get round the accountant if we want this tax scheme to work. A: "I know how to get round Mom—I'll just ask Dad for permission." B: "Right, like he's not gonna say no too." Are you trying to come up with some way to get round the boss? Geez, it would take less time for you to just do the work he gave you.

get round (something)

To solve, overcome, avoid, or circumvent some difficulty, problem, or obstacle. We got round the overheating problem by installing an additional air vent. Many people try to get round their taxes in one way or another, but most of them end up paying even more in fines. I'm trying to find some way to get round this stupid data entry work the boss gave me.