touch with a barge pole
From Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Alternative forms
Etymology
Probably derived from the barge poles that bargemen used to fend off wharfs and other boats.
Pronunciation
Audio (General Australian): (file)
Verb
not touch (something) with a barge pole
- (idiomatic, UK) To avoid something at all costs; to refuse to associate with something; (signifies a strong aversion).
Usage notes
This expression is almost exclusively used in the negative.
Translations
not touch with a ten-foot pole — see not touch with a ten-foot pole
See also
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