steer clear of (somebody)(something)
Meaning(s)
1. to stay away or avoid someone or something
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
steer clear of alcohol/danger/trouble
Analysis
To steer clear of something or someone means to avoid contact with it or to stay away from it altogether. You might steer clear of a particular activity or task you do not want to do or complete, or try to steer clear of people or things which are not good for you. You will hear this idiomatic expression used in social and professional contexts.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I am trying to steer clear of chocolate so I can fit into my dress for the wedding.
- Fiona is in a bad mood. I'd steer clear of her if I were you.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- As a company, we need to steer clear of stereotypes when it comes to advertising in order to avoid alienating customers.
- For the moment we are steering clear of Asian markets. We need a better strategy to approach them in the future.