steer clear of, to
Definition:
To avoid or keep away from.
Origin:
This term comes from its literal use in sailing in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries—sailors needed to skillfully navigate, or “steer clear,” to avoid hazards at sea. The esteemed Daniel Defoe used it in his work Colonel Jacque in 1723, catching the linguistic wind until it sailed into figurative use by the late eighteenth century. Wise old George Washington, in his farewell address of 1796, advised, “It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliance with any portion of the foreign world.”
Similar and Related Terms:
- Avoid: Dodge, elude, evade, shun.
- Keep Away: Fend off, stay away from, keep distance.
- Stay Clear Of: Circumvent, sidestep.
Synonyms:
Dodge, sidestep, circumvent, evade.
Antonyms:
Engage with, confront, tackle, face.
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “I always steer clear of napping with cats during thunderstorms—no need to add more chaos to my life!”
- “Some days, the best accomplishment is steering clear of the refrigerator.”
Proverbs & References:
- Keep clear men’s door who are mad; bad dogs, what doors have they made
— Chinese Proverb
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville: Masterpiece of adventure on the high seas.
- “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway: A tale threading deep waters of struggle and determination.
- Song: “Calypso” by John Denver: Celebrating Jacques Cousteau’s exploration and love for the oceans.
- Movie: “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World”: Nautical prowess navigating choppy waters.
Inspirational Thought:
“Navigate your life like a skilled sailor, steering clear of storms while sailing boldly towards your dreams.”
⛵️ Bon voyage on your adventures with language!
