How Do You Spell WIDE BERTH?

Pronunciation: [wˈa͡ɪd bˈɜːθ] (IPA)

The phrase "wide berth" is often misspelled as "wide birth". The correct spelling is "berth," which is pronounced /bɜːθ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This word refers to a place for a ship to anchor or dock. The phrase "wide berth" means to keep a safe distance from something or someone. Remembering that the word is spelled with an "e" like "employee" and not an "i" like "imagine" can help avoid confusion in spelling and meaning.

WIDE BERTH Meaning and Definition

1. Wide berth is a phrase used to describe the act of keeping a significant distance or space between oneself and someone or something else. The expression originates from naval terminology, wherein a "berth" refers to the space allotted to a ship for anchoring or docking. To give a "wide berth" means to maintain a safe or considerable gap or separation from a potentially problematic or unpleasant person, situation, or object.

   Figuratively, the concept of a wide berth applies in various contexts. It is often employed when referring to avoiding conflict, dangerous individuals, unwanted attention, or potential obstacles. By intentionally keeping distance, individuals can minimize the chances of encountering an undesirable outcome. For example, if someone is known to be hot-tempered or confrontational, it is advisable to give them a wide berth to prevent any altercations.

   Additionally, the term can also be used to describe an action taken to avoid or minimize the impact of an unpleasant situation, such as a disease outbreak or a financial crisis. By keeping a wide berth from situations that could potentially lead to harm or negative consequences, individuals can protect themselves and ensure their well-being.

   In summary, to give a wide berth means to keep a significant distance physically or metaphorically, with the purpose of avoiding potential harm, conflict, or difficulties. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal safety and minimizing unwanted interactions or situations.

Common Misspellings for WIDE BERTH

• qide berth
• aide berth
• side berth
• eide berth
• 3ide berth
• 2ide berth
• wude berth
• wjde berth
• wkde berth
• wode berth
• w9de berth
• w8de berth
• wise berth
• wixe berth
• wice berth
• wife berth
• wire berth
• wiee berth
• widw berth
• wids berth

Etymology of WIDE BERTH

The phrase "wide berth" originates from nautical terminology. The term "berth" refers to a designated place for a ship to anchor or moor. In this context, it specifically refers to the space needed to accommodate a vessel. "Wide berth" suggests giving a substantial amount of space between two objects or entities. Its common usage today often implies avoiding or keeping a distance from someone or something.

Idioms with the word WIDE BERTH

• give sth/sb a wide berth The idiom "give something or someone a wide berth" means to intentionally avoid or keep a safe distance from something or someone, typically due to a perceived or actual danger, threat, or unpleasantness. It suggests the act of deliberately staying away from a situation or person to ensure one's own well-being.
• give sb/sth a wide berth To give someone or something a wide berth means to maintain a safe distance or to avoid getting involved with them/it. It indicates the act of intentionally keeping one's distance to avoid potential problems, conflicts, or dangers.
• give sm or sth a wide berth The idiom "give someone or something a wide berth" means to deliberately avoid a person, place, or thing to maintain distance or stay away due to their unpleasant or dangerous nature. It is often used to describe avoiding someone who is known to be troublesome or avoiding a potentially risky situation.
• give (a) wide berth to The idiom "give (a) wide berth to" means to intentionally keep one's distance from someone or something, either physically or figuratively, in order to avoid any potential problems, conflicts, or dangers associated with them. It implies maintaining a significant distance or avoiding any engagement or interaction.
• give a wide berth The idiom "give a wide berth" means to keep a distance from someone or something, either physically or figuratively, in order to avoid any potential problems, conflicts, or dangers associated with them.
• give somebody/something a wide berth To "give somebody/something a wide berth" means to keep a safe and cautious distance from them or to avoid them completely, usually because of potential danger, harm, or unpleasantness associated with them. It can refer to physical distance or emotional detachment.
• give (someone or something) a wide berth The idiom "give (someone or something) a wide berth" means to deliberately keep a safe and significant distance from someone or something, typically to avoid trouble, conflict, or danger. It implies a desire to maintain a safe and cautious distance to prevent any negative consequences or involvement.
• give someone/something a wide berth The idiom "give someone/something a wide berth" means to keep a significant distance from someone or something, typically to avoid any potential trouble, conflict, or danger. It implies staying away or steering clear from a specific person, situation, or object as a preventive measure.
• a wide berth The idiom "a wide berth" means to keep a considerable distance or to avoid getting involved or approaching someone or something. It suggests maintaining a safe or cautious distance physically, emotionally, or socially from a person, situation, or place.
• wide berth To keep a "wide berth" means to maintain a significant distance or to avoid getting too close to something or someone, either physically or metaphorically, usually to prevent problems or difficulties.