The term "the Washington run-around" is often used in reference to being given the run-around or being given evasive or non-specific answers by politicians or government officials in Washington D.C. There are various other synonyms that can be used in place of this term, including "political maneuvering," "red tape," or "bureaucratic shuffle." Other alternatives may include "political dodgeball," "government gridlock," or "political evasiveness." Ultimately, all of these synonyms represent the frustrating sense of a lack of progress or resolution that can often arise when dealing with political or bureaucratic processes.