not touch with a barge pole
English
editAlternative forms
editEtymology
editProbably derived from the barge poles that bargemen used to fend off wharfs and other boats.
Pronunciation
editAudio (General Australian): (file)
Verb
editnot 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
editThis expression is almost exclusively used in the negative.
Translations
editnot touch with a ten-foot pole — see not touch with a ten-foot pole