Jul 27, 2025 · give (someone or something) a wide berth idiom : to avoid or stay away from (someone or something)

When a ship is given a wide berth, it means that it’s been provided with plenty of room to maneuver about and avoid collisions. In a literal sense, the phrase was popular in the 1500s …

Oct 7, 2023 · The expression "give a wide berth" refers to staying away from something or someone to avoid trouble or danger. The phrase can be used in both literal and figurative …

When sailors were warned to keep a wide bearing off something they were being told to make sure to maintain enough sea room from it. Like many seafaring terms it dates back to the …

Avoid, as in After Jane told on them, they gave her a wide berth. This expression alludes to giving a vessel enough room to swing at anchor so as to avoid a collision.

Meaning of give something/someone a wide berth in English give something/someone a wide berth idiom informal Add to word list to avoid a person or place:

Aug 15, 2025 · Noun [edit] wide berth (plural wide berths) (nautical) Adequate distance from sea vessels or other objects to ensure safety and maneuverability.

The idiom "wide berth" means to keep a safe distance or to avoid getting involved with someone or something. It suggests being cautious and not taking any risks.

Oct 17, 2025 · “Give a wide berth” is an idiomatic expression that urges someone to keep a considerable distance from a person, object, or situation—either physically or metaphorically.

Mar 11, 2022 · After throwing the toy at his little sister, Joey gave her a wide berth for the remainder of the evening to avoid retaliation. Keep a wide berth between any liquids and …