I would not touch that deal with a barge pole.
not touch with a barge pole
idiomTo avoid something at all costs; to refuse to associate with something; (signifies a strong aversion).
Origin
disputed originProbably derived from the barge poles that bargemen used to fend off wharfs and other boats.
The company had such a bad reputation that most investors would not touch it with a barge pole.
Despite the tempting financial incentives offered by the firm, the seasoned consultant insisted he would not touch the project with a barge pole due to its questionable ethics.
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common touch
The personal quality of showing understanding of and sympathy for the concerns of ordinary people; rapport with and acceptance by ordinary people, usually in a celebrity or leader.
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golden touch
Synonym of Midas touch (“the ability to achieve financial reward (or, more generally, success) easily and consistently”).
- 03
high on the totem pole
Accorded relatively high importance.
- 04
human touch
The ability of a person to deal with others in a personable and empathetic way.
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kick into touch
To evade an issue; to stop from happening.
- 06
lose one's touch
To lose one's special mastery of or knack for a particular skill or activity.
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lose touch
To lose contact (with).
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low on the totem pole
Accorded relatively little importance.