Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
would not touch someone or something with a barge pole
idiom
/wʊd nɒt tʌtʃ ˈsʌmwʌn ɔːr ˈsʌmθɪŋ wɪð ə bɑːrdʒ poʊl/
Definition
A phrase used to express strong aversion or refusal to get involved with someone or something.
Examples
- I would not touch that stock with a barge pole; it’s too risky.
- She said she wouldn’t touch his offer with a barge pole after hearing the conditions.
- He’s the kind of person I wouldn’t touch with a barge pole.
Meaning
This expression implies that the speaker finds the person or thing in question undesirable or troublesome, suggesting they wouldn’t even want to be close enough to touch it with a long pole used for guiding a barge, often used metaphorically to illustrate extreme distaste.
Synonyms
- avoid
- stay away from
- have nothing to do with
- shun
- eschew
