not touch with a ten-foot pole
The idiom "not touch with a ten-foot pole" signifies a strong aversion to something or someone, indicating a complete avoidance due to dislike, distrust, or perceived danger.
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Definition
C1General
(informal)To completely avoid something or someone because it is undesirable or potentially harmful.
Example
- He wouldn't touch that investment with a ten-foot pole after hearing about the company's scandals.
- I wouldn't touch that job with a ten-foot pole; it sounds like a nightmare.
C1Social
(informal)To refuse any involvement or association with someone or something due to strong dislike or distrust.
Example
- She wouldn't touch online dating with a ten-foot pole after her last experience.
- They wouldn't touch that politician with a ten-foot pole because of his controversial views.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "not touch with a ten-foot pole":