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Not touch somebody/something with a bargepole

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Strong Avoidance

Expresses a very strong decision to avoid something because of negative qualities or consequences.

Illustration for Strong Avoidance
That restaurant has failed several health inspections; I'd not touch it with a bargepole.
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Figurative Meaning

The phrase is not literal; it's an idiomatic expression to emphasize avoidance without actual poles involved.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
His last project was a disaster, so I wouldn't touch his new scheme with a bargepole.
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Colloquial Use

Used in casual conversations, may not be suitable for formal contexts.

Illustration for Colloquial Use
She's so unreliable; I wouldn't touch her offer with a bargepole.
Visual representation of the word "Not touch somebody/something with a bargepole"

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