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to not touch somebody or something with a ten-foot pole
to not touch somebody or something with a ten-foot pole
01
to have nothing to do with someone or something
Dialect
American
AmericanIdiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "not touch someone or something with a ten-foot pole" and when to use it?
The idiom "not touch someone or something with a ten-foot pole" has unclear origins, but it is believed to have been in use since the early 19th century in the United States. It likely reflects a sense of extreme avoidance or reluctance. This expression is used to imply that someone or something is so undesirable or risky that you would not even consider coming into close contact, even with an extended ten-foot pole.
Examples
After the recent controversies, the company's reputation is so tarnished that potential investors wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole.
