Answer: sidestepped

AnswerCrossword Clue
SIDESTEPPEDAvoided.
sidesteppedAvoid (someone or something) by stepping sideways
sidesteppedSIDESTEP, to step to one side
sidesteppedClimb or descend by lifting alternate skis while sideways on the slope
sidesteppedAvoid dealing with or discussing (something problematic or disagreeable)