Ward off

Meaning

The idiom "ward off" means to keep something away or prevent it from happening. It can also mean to protect oneself from danger or harm. The figurative meaning of the idiom is often used to describe a situation where someone or something is being kept at bay or excluded.

Usage

• I tried to ward off the negative comments on my review by responding with positivity.
• The company's new policies have been effective in warding off potential competitors.
• She used hand sanitizer to ward off germs before handling sensitive documents.
• The storm was too strong to ward off even the most experienced sailors.
• He tried to ward off the interrogators by giving vague answers.

Roots and History

The idiom "ward off" has its roots in Old English, where it meant to keep something away or prevent it from reaching a person or place. The word "ward" comes from the Old Norse word "varð," which means to stand guard or watch over. Over time, the meaning of the idiom expanded to include protecting oneself from danger or harm.

Synonyms in English

• Keep at bay
• Repel
• Deter
• Avert
• Shield

Synonyms in other languages

• 守護 (Japanese) - to protect or defend something or someone
• 막아주다 (Korean) - to prevent or block something from happening
• היום חבתם מנפשים לגם אריע (Hebrew) - today is a day of life, and we must protect ourselves
• فيرس (Persian) - to keep something or someone at bay
• على القبول (Arabic) - to prevent or ward off something from reaching oneself

Similar Idioms

• when life gives you lemons

• right away

• off on the wrong foot