🚢 Give a Wide Berth To, To 🌊
Definition: To avoid. This term, which in the eighteenth century literally meant to give a ship plenty of room to swing at anchor, was transferred to other objects of avoidance and soon became a cliché. “I recommend you to keep a wide berth of me, sir,” wrote Thackeray (The Newcomes, 1854).
Similar Expressions
- Steer clear of
- Stay away from
- Keep one’s distance
- Avoid like the plague (someone or something extremely)
- Sidestep (skillfully avoid)
Proverbs & Quotes
- Proverb: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” — Benjamin Franklin
- Quote: “The best way to avoid problems is to have good radar.” — Author Unknown 🚀
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms:
- Shun
- Eschew
- Refrain from
- Antonyms:
- Approach
- Embrace
- Welcome
Humor-Filled Quote
“Give a wide berth to your in-laws if you want to avoid lots of family drama—or a Titanic of troubles!” 😜
Cultural References
- Literature: One famed use is in Thackeray’s The Newcomes (1854), showcasing its early literary footprint.
- Books: Avoiding Mr. Wrong: And What to Do If You Didn’t by Stephen Arterburn
- Movies: Avoiding Alien Abductions (A fictional, humorous sci-fi thriller)
- Songs: “Get Outta My Way” by Kylie Minogue (A pop tune embodying the essence of avoidance)
- Poetry: “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley (“I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul”—direct that ship away!)
Intriguing Title Sections 🧐
- “The Maritime Origins of Modern Avoidance”
- “From Anchors to Daily Anxieties: Giving a Wide Berth”
### Which of these idioms means to avoid something?
- [x] Give a wide berth to
- [ ] Break the ice
- [ ] Jump the gun
- [ ] Bite the bullet
> **Explanation:** "Give a wide berth to" means to avoid something, while the others have different idiomatic meanings.
### Which of these expressions is a synonym for 'give a wide berth to'?
- [ ] Bite the dust
- [x] Steer clear of
- [ ] Hit the nail on the head
- [ ] Go the extra mile
> **Explanation:** "Steer clear of" is another way to say "avoid." The others suggest different actions entirely.
### True or False: "Give a wide berth to" originally referred to giving space to a ship.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True! This idiom originates from maritime activities where ships needed ample room at anchor.
Farewell Thought 🤔
As you navigate through the sea of life, remember to give a wide berth to negativity and drama. You’ve got the whole ocean ahead—steer wisely! 🌊🚢
Sincerely,
Captain Phrasefinder
