- Meaning
- This idiom means to avoid or keep a safe distance from someone or something potentially dangerous, troublesome, or undesirable. It suggests steering clear to prevent conflict or harm, often used in social, professional, or situational contexts to advocate caution. The phrase carries a prudent, sometimes wary tone, reflecting cultural values of self-preservation and discretion, and is rooted in the idea of maintaining physical or emotional space to avoid entanglement or risk.
- Origin
- The phrase originates from 17th-century nautical terminology, where ships were given a ‘wide berth’ (ample space) to avoid collisions or hazards in crowded ports. An early use appears in Samuel Pepys’ 1663 diary, noting a ship needing a ‘wide berth’ to maneuver. The metaphorical use emerged in the 18th century, reflecting Britain’s maritime culture, as seen in Jonathan Swift’s *Gulliver’s Travels* (1726). By the 19th century, it was common in British and American English, particularly in contexts of social avoidance, with Charles Dickens’ *Bleak House* (1853) using it. The phrase’s vivid imagery and relevance to caution ensured its spread, especially in diplomacy and interpersonal relations.
- Variants
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- Give a wide berth
- Give a wide berth to
- Keep a wide berth
- Give something a wide berth
- Examples
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- Give that angry customer a wide berth until she calms down.
- He gave a wide berth to the risky investment, sensing trouble ahead.
- Keep a wide berth from office gossip—it only causes drama.
- Give the construction site a wide berth to avoid any accidents.
- She gave a wide berth to her ex at the party, avoiding an awkward encounter.
- Give that shady vendor a wide berth; their deals seem too good to be true.
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