"Beat the gums" is a colloquial phrase used to describe idle talk or pointless conversation. There are several other expressions that could be used in its place, such as "chew the fat", "shoot the breeze", or "jawbone". These all convey the same idea of talking for the sake of talking, or simply passing time without purpose. Other synonyms could include "rattle on", "prattle", or "waste time". While these phrases can be used interchangeably, some may be more appropriate depending on the context or audience. Overall, "beat the gums" is just one way to describe a common social phenomenon that we all engage in from time to time.