OpenSynonym

keep clear of

/kiːp klɪr əv/

VERB

1. Avoiding people or things

To deliberately avoid someone or something, particularly to prevent unwanted contact, involvement, danger, or unpleasant experiences.

1.1. Avoiding people and unwanted contact

Used to describe deliberately staying away from particular people, keeping one's distance, or avoiding interaction with someone.

Synonyms

  • avoid
  • steer clear of
  • stay away from
  • shun
  • keep away from
  • give a wide berth to
  • keep one's distance from
  • eschew
  • evade
  • dodge

Antonyms

Examples

  • I prefer to keep clear of people who constantly create unnecessary drama.
  • She decided to keep clear of her former business partner.
  • He tries to keep clear of arguments with his colleagues.

Related Words

  • distance
  • separation
  • avoidance
  • detachment
  • withdrawal
  • isolation
  • disengagement

1.2. Avoiding danger and harmful situations

Used to describe staying away from dangerous places, harmful substances, risky activities, or situations that could cause trouble or injury.

Synonyms

  • avoid
  • steer clear of
  • stay away from
  • keep away from
  • shun
  • evade
  • avoid contact with
  • give a wide berth to
  • eschew

Antonyms

Examples

  • Drivers should keep clear of flooded roads during heavy rain.
  • You should keep clear of electrical wires that have fallen onto the road.
  • The doctor advised him to keep clear of foods that trigger allergic reactions.

Related Words

1.3. Avoiding involvement and trouble

Used to describe deliberately refusing to become involved in conflicts, disputes, questionable activities, or complicated situations.

Synonyms

  • stay out of
  • avoid
  • steer clear of
  • keep out of
  • disassociate oneself from
  • distance oneself from
  • withdraw from
  • refrain from
  • abstain from

Antonyms

  • get involved in
  • participate in
  • interfere in
  • meddle in
  • engage in
  • take part in

Examples

  • He decided to keep clear of the dispute between the two departments.
  • The company wants to keep clear of any unethical business practices.
  • She has learned to keep clear of office politics.

Related Words