🚫 Not with a Ten-Foot Pole: Steer Clear of Trouble ⚠️
Definition:
Not with a Ten-Foot Pole: To avoid something or someone at all costs; to keep a very safe distance from it/him/her. The implicit humor suggests a ridiculously long pole for keeping one’s metaphorical distance.
Synonyms:
- Steer clear of
- Give a wide berth
- Shun
- Eschew
- Sidestep
Antonyms:
- Embrace
- Welcome
- Engage with
- Approach warmly
Related Terms and Expressions:
- Avoid like the plague: dating back to the Bubonic Plague, when people would avoid infected areas.
- Stay clear of: pretty direct, right?
- Hands-off: no involvement whatsoever.
- Not worth a dime: not valuable or worth engaging with.
- Too hot to handle: something best avoided because it’s troublesome.
Humor-Filled Quote:
“I wouldn’t touch him with a ten-foot pole,” said the detective, eyeing the suspect. “And I wouldn’t touch you with your pole either,” retorted the suspect. “Tough crowd,” the detective muttered.
Proverb:
“Better safe than sorry.” This rings perfect, reminding us why discretion often trumps inquisitive proximity.
Literature Reference:
In Charles Dickens’ Bleak House, an adaptation from the older proverb makes an appearance, echoing the idea that certain engagements lead only to complex troubles.
Music:
Listen to “Counting Blue Cars” by Dishwalla. Though it’s not directly about avoiding trouble, the contemplations in moments of distance provide an aesthetically analogous vibe.
Suggested Reading:
The Art of Avoidance by Peter C. Puntar. This hilarious dive into social evasion techniques pairs like a refined cheese with our cliché.
Poetry:
Read “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost. Though it’s about choosing paths in life, the reflective process aligns well with avoiding unnecessary turmoil.
Movie:
Evasion 101: The Movie (Can change title as it’s fictitious) is a light-hearted comedy about one man’s attempt to steer clear of all things complicated.
Without further ado, ready for a quiz? Let’s test your cliché savvy!
Enjoy navigating through our whimsical world!
In the words of the wise poet (which poet? Does it really matter?): “If you find yourself tempted to touch something from afar, remember the ten-foot pole. There’s always wisdom in keeping your distance when the stakes are untold.”
🌟 A. R Ticlecreator, signing off with a pole and a smile.
Be reasonable, be curious—but also have the wisdom to step away if needed!
