get the runaround

1. Be treated evasively or misleadingly, especially in response to a request. For example, Every time I ask about next year's plans I get the runaround. The related expression give the runaround means “to treat evasively or misleadingly,” as in He gives her the runaround whenever she asks for time off. [Early 1900s]

Example Sentences

“Every day they call to get an update. Every single day they’re calling. And they get the runaround every single day, repeatedly,” she said.

From New York Times

Anger is an understandable response when you get the runaround.

From Seattle Times

“Every time I call the Department of Education for an update, I get the runaround. No one has answers. The stain of that loan is holding me back.”

From Washington Post

Frustrated L.A. taxpayers get the runaround, or no response at all, when they try to get attention for various municipal breakdowns.

From Los Angeles Times

I hear frequently from frustrated taxpayers who get the runaround, or no response at all, when they try to get attention for various municipal breakdowns.

From Los Angeles Times