Is lying to avoid hurting feelings, as in the case of feigning busyness to avoid meeting someone, permissible?

Lying is blameworthy unless it leads to a predominant benefit, in which case it may be permissible or even obligatory. Lying can be avoided by using ma'arid (indirect statements) and tawriya (equivocation), which is speech that carries two meanings: one intended by the speaker and another understood by the listener. This is a legitimate loophole when needed. If the benefit can be achieved through ma'arid, then that must be done, and lying is not permissible. Conciliating hearts and removing alienation are valid purposes that permit the use of tawriya and ma'arid, such as a person excusing themselves by saying they are busy, with the intention of a genuine busyness making it truthful, as Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal did when asked about al-Marwazi.