WOULDN'T Meaning and
Definition
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"Wouldn't" is a contraction of the words "would" and "not," indicating the negative form of the verb "would." It is used to express a refusal, unwillingness, or preference against an action or situation.
The primary meaning of "wouldn't" is associated with expressing a negative hypothetical or conditional outcome, suggesting that it is implausible or unlikely to happen. It is commonly used to indicate a past habit or repeated action that did not occur, or to convey a negative consequence that could have resulted from a different choice or decision. For instance, "She wouldn't go to the party last night," suggests that she did not attend the party in the past.
Additionally, "wouldn't" can function as a polite way to decline an invitation or offer, indicating a lack of desire or interest in the proposed action or opportunity. In this context, it is often used to convey reluctance or an unwillingness to comply. For example, "I wouldn't want to impose on you" expresses a person’s preference not to inconvenience or burden someone else.
Overall, "wouldn't" is a versatile contraction that allows individuals to express negative hypotheticals, decline invitations, and convey a range of attitudes and preferences, ultimately adding depth and nuance to conversations and interactions.
Top Common Misspellings for WOULDN'T *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for WOULDN'T
Etymology of WOULDN'T
The word "wouldn't" is a contraction of two words: "would" and "not". The etymology of "would" can be traced back to the Old English word "wolde", which is the past tense form of the verb "willan" meaning "to want, wish for". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "wulþ-", which signifies desire or wish. Over time, "wolde" evolved in Middle English to "would". The addition of "not" to "would" creates the contraction "wouldn't", which is commonly used today.
Idioms with the word WOULDN'T
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I wouldn't say no
The idiom "I wouldn't say no" means that although one might not necessarily jump at the opportunity or readily express enthusiasm, they are open to accepting or trying something. It implies a willingness to consider or consider accepting a proposition or invitation without outrightly rejecting it.
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wouldn't be seen dead
The idiom "wouldn't be seen dead" is used to express strong disapproval or unwillingness to be associated with someone or something. It implies that the person saying the phrase would rather be dead than be seen or be involved with a particular person, place, or thing. It is an exaggeration that emphasizes a strong negative opinion or aversion.
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wouldn't touch sth with a tenfoot pole, at wouldn't touch sth with a barge pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch something with a ten-foot pole" (or "wouldn't touch something with a barge pole") means to have absolutely no desire or interest in being involved with something or someone. It implies a strong aversion or unwillingness to engage, typically due to the perceived negative aspects or consequences of the matter at hand.
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I wouldn't trust sb as far as I could throw them
The idiom "I wouldn't trust someone as far as I could throw them" means that you have very little trust or confidence in someone. It implies that you have a low opinion of that person's integrity, honesty, or reliability. The phrase suggests that you have no faith in their ability to fulfill their promises or to be trustworthy.
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I wouldn't bet on it, at don't bet on it
The idiom "I wouldn't bet on it" or "don't bet on it" is used to express doubt or skepticism about something. It implies that the speaker does not believe that a particular event or outcome will occur, and advises against making a wager or trusting in its likelihood.
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it wouldn't hurt you to do sth
The idiom "it wouldn't hurt you to do sth" means that doing a particular thing or taking a certain action would not cause harm or damage to someone. It suggests that the person should consider doing it as it would not have negative consequences and could potentially be beneficial.
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wouldn't touch sth with a barge pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch something with a barge pole" means that someone wants absolutely no association or involvement with a particular thing or person. It signifies a strong aversion or refusal to be associated due to perceived risk, danger, or undesirability.
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wouldn't have it any other way
The idiom "wouldn't have it any other way" means that one is completely satisfied or content with the current situation or outcome and would not change it in any manner. It implies that the existing circumstances are exactly as desired or preferred.
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what I wouldn't give for sth
The idiom "what I wouldn't give for sth" is used to express a strong desire or longing for something, emphasizing how much one is willing to sacrifice or trade to obtain it. It suggests that the person would be willing to give up a lot or make any necessary sacrifices to have the desired thing or experience.
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what wouldn't I give for sth, at what I wouldn't give for sth
The idiom "what wouldn't I give for sth, or at what I wouldn't give for sth" is used to express a strong desire or longing for something. It suggests that one would be willing to give up or sacrifice a lot in order to obtain or experience that desired thing.
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wild horses wouldn't drag me
The idiom "wild horses wouldn't drag me" is used to express extreme determination or strong resistance against doing something or going somewhere. It implies that under no circumstances would a person be willing to participate or engage in a particular activity, showing their steadfastness and refusal to be persuaded or influenced.
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I/you wouldn't wish sth on anyone/my/your worst enemy
The idiom "I/you wouldn't wish something on anyone/my/your worst enemy" means that the situation or experience being discussed is extremely challenging, difficult, or unpleasant. The speaker emphasizes that they do not want anyone, not even their worst enemy, to go through or experience that particular thing. It implies that the situation is so undesirable that no one should have to endure it.
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wouldn't dream of sth/doing sth
The idiom "wouldn't dream of something/doing something" is used to express that someone firmly refuses or strongly opposes a particular action or idea. It indicates that the person finds the suggestion unrealistic, unimaginable, or completely out of the question.
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wouldn't know sth if you fell over one/it
The idiom "wouldn't know something if you fell over one/it" is used to describe someone who is completely oblivious or clueless about a certain thing or situation. It implies that even if the person were to encounter or stumble upon the thing they are ignorant about, they still wouldn't recognize or understand it.
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wouldn't know sth if it hit you in the face, at wouldn't know sth if you fell over one/it
The idiom "wouldn't know something if it hit you in the face" means that someone is very oblivious or ignorant about a particular thing, even if it is extremely obvious or apparent. It implies that the person is so unaware that they wouldn't recognize the thing even if it had a direct impact or was right in front of them. A similar variation of the idiom is "wouldn't know something if you fell over one/it," which suggests that the person would still remain clueless about something even if they stumbled or had a physical encounter with it.
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wouldn't harm/hurt a fly
The idiom "wouldn't harm/hurt a fly" is used to describe someone who is extremely gentle, peaceful, or harmless. It suggests that the person is not capable of causing harm or being aggressive towards others, even towards small creatures like flies.
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butter wouldn't melt in sb's mouth
The idiom "butter wouldn't melt in someone's mouth" is used to describe a person who appears innocent, pure, or overly sweet and wholesome, often to mask their true cunning, manipulative, or mischievous nature. It implies that the person's outward appearance does not reflect their true character or intentions.
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wouldn't say boo to a goose
The idiom "wouldn't say boo to a goose" is used to describe someone who is extremely timid, shy, or easily frightened. It implies that the person lacks assertiveness or the ability to stand up for themselves.
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wouldn't be caught/seen dead
The idiom "wouldn't be caught/seen dead" is a hyperbolic expression used to convey an intense aversion or refusal towards a particular action, object, or appearance. It implies that the person would rather face death than engage in or associate themselves with the mentioned activity or item.
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wouldn't want to be in sm's shoes
The idiom "wouldn't want to be in someone's shoes" is used to express sympathy for someone in a difficult or uncomfortable situation, indicating that the speaker would not like to be in that person's position. It implies that the situation is unfavorable or unpleasant, and the speaker is grateful to not be experiencing it themselves.
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I wouldn't touch sb/sth with a barge pole.
The idiom "I wouldn't touch sb/sth with a barge pole" is used to express extreme aversion or unwillingness to have any association or involvement with a person or thing. It implies that the person or thing being referred to is considered undesirable, dangerous, or simply not worth the effort. It can also convey a sense of wanting to maintain a significant distance from the subject, indicating a strong negative attitude or perception.
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wouldn't bet on it
The idiom "wouldn't bet on it" means that you do not believe something is likely to happen or do not have confidence in a particular outcome. It suggests that you would not risk or wager money on the stated outcome because you don't consider it probable.
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look as if butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth
The idiom "look as if butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth" refers to someone who appears innocent, sweet, or demure, despite potentially hiding deceitful intentions, mischief, or a mischievous nature. It emphasizes the contrast between a person's innocent outward appearance and their true character or behavior.
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butter wouldn't melt (in sm's mouth)
The idiom "butter wouldn't melt (in someone's mouth)" is used to describe someone who appears innocent and sweet, despite potentially having a mischievous or deceptive nature. It implies that the person is able to maintain a calm and innocent demeanor even in situations that might cause others to react differently.
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I wouldn't trust as far as I could throw
The idiom "I wouldn't trust as far as I could throw" means that the person or thing in question is not reliable or trustworthy at all. It expresses a lack of confidence or faith in a particular individual or situation. The comparison to how far one could physically throw something reinforces the idea that there is minimal trust or belief in that person or thing.
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wouldn't touch sm or sth with a tenfoot pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch someone or something with a ten-foot pole" is used to express a strong aversion or complete unwillingness to be associated with or involved in a particular person, thing, or situation. It implies that the speaker finds the mentioned subject highly undesirable, dangerous, or unappealing, to the extent that they would go to great lengths to avoid any association or involvement with it.
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I wouldn't touch it with a tenfoot pole.
The idiom "I wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole" means that one has a strong aversion or hesitation towards something, and would prefer not to be involved or associated with it. It implies a feeling of extreme caution or avoidance.
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wouldn't touch with a tenfoot pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch with a ten-foot pole" means that someone would not want to be associated or involved with a particular thing or person under any circumstances because of its negative aspects, dangers, or potential consequences. It implies a sense of strong aversion or avoidance towards something.
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I wouldn't touch with a barge pole
The idiom "I wouldn't touch with a barge pole" is used to express strong aversion or reluctance towards something or someone. It implies that the person would not even consider getting involved or associating themselves with the subject or object in question. It conveys a sense of extreme caution or dislike.
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You wouldn't dare (to do sth)!
The idiom "You wouldn't dare (to do sth)!" is a phrase used to challenge someone's courage or willingness to do something. It implies doubt or skepticism towards the possibility of someone taking a particular action.
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wouldn't be caught dead
The idiom "wouldn't be caught dead" is used to express a strong aversion or refusal to do or be associated with something, often due to it being considered embarrassing, shameful, or contrary to one's principles. It implies that the person would rather die than engage in the mentioned activity or be seen in a particular situation.
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wouldn't want to be in shoes
The idiom "wouldn't want to be in their shoes" means that one does not envy or desire to be in someone else's position due to the difficulties, challenges, or consequences associated with it. It implies that the person's situation is unfavorable or undesirable, and the speaker does not want to experience or face the same circumstances.
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I/You wouldn't wish sth on my/your worst enemy.
The idiom "I/You wouldn't wish something on my/your worst enemy" means that something is so terrible, painful, or undesirable that even if you have great animosity towards someone, you would not want them to experience it. It emphasizes the extreme level of distress or harm associated with the situation being described.
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I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy.
The idiom "I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy" means that the situation or experience being referred to is so terrible, undesirable, or painful that the speaker wouldn't want anyone, not even their most detested enemy, to go through it. It emphasizes the severity or negativity of the situation.
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wouldn't dream of doing
The idiom "wouldn't dream of doing" means that someone is strongly opposed to or would never consider doing a particular action. It signifies a strong rejection or non-acceptance of the suggested action.
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wouldn't dream of
The idiom "wouldn't dream of" means that one would never consider or think about doing something. It indicates a strong refusal or unwillingness to engage in a particular action or behavior.
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I wouldn't put it past
The idiom "I wouldn't put it past" means that someone believes it is possible for someone or something to do a particular action, even though it might seem surprising or unexpected. It implies that the person or thing in question is capable of behaving in that way, although it may be contrary to their usual behavior or expectations.
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wouldn't know if it hit in the face
The idiom "wouldn't know if it hit in the face" means that a person is completely oblivious or unaware of something, even if it is obvious or directly affects them. It implies that the person lacks awareness, understanding, or simply fails to notice the impact or consequences of a situation, much like not realizing if something physically struck them in the face.
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look as if butter wouldn't melt in mouth
The idiom "look as if butter wouldn't melt in mouth" refers to someone who appears innocent, modest, or harmless on the surface despite potentially having mischievous or deceitful intentions. It describes someone who gives the impression of being pure and gentle, as exemplified by the smoothness and coolness of butter, but may actually be quite cunning or manipulative.
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wouldn't know sth if it hit you in the face
The idiom "wouldn't know something if it hit you in the face" means that someone is completely clueless or unaware of a particular thing, even if it was incredibly obvious or directly pointed out to them. It highlights the lack of awareness or understanding someone has regarding a specific topic or situation.
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wouldn't know
The idiom "wouldn't know" is generally used to express ignorance or lack of knowledge about something. It indicates that a person is not aware or has no understanding of a particular situation, topic, or concept. It suggests that the person is completely unfamiliar or uninformed about the matter being discussed.
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wouldn't harm a fly
The idiom "wouldn't harm a fly" is used to describe someone who is exceptionally gentle, kind-hearted, or non-violent. It suggests that the person would not intentionally cause harm or engage in any act of aggression, even towards the most harmless or innocent creatures like flies.
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butter wouldn't melt in mouth
The idiom "butter wouldn't melt in (someone's) mouth" is used to describe someone who appears innocent, sincere, or well-behaved, often with a sweet demeanor. It implies that the person seems entirely harmless and angelic, even though they may be concealing their true nature or intentions.
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it wouldn't do (someone) any harm (to do something)
The idiom "it wouldn't do (someone) any harm (to do something)" means that doing a particular action or task would have no negative consequences or adverse effects on the person. It implies that the action is beneficial or advisable without any potential harm or risk involved.
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butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth
The idiom "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth" is used to describe someone who appears innocent, sweet-natured, or well-behaved, despite potentially having devious or cunning intentions. It implies that the person's outward demeanor is extremely composed and gentle, as if they would not cause any harm or trouble.
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I wouldn't touch (something or someone) with a barge pole
The idiom "I wouldn't touch (something or someone) with a barge pole" is used to express a strong aversion or dislike towards something or someone. It implies that the speaker has absolutely no desire or intention to be associated with or involved in any way with the mentioned thing or person. It emphasizes a complete lack of interest or willingness to engage.
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wouldn't touch something/someone with a barge pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch something/someone with a barge pole" means that someone wants absolutely nothing to do with a particular thing or person. It implies a strong aversion or reluctance to be associated with or involved in anything related to the topic or individual in question.
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wouldn't touch something/someone with a ten-foot pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch something/someone with a ten-foot pole" means to have a strong aversion or unwillingness to get involved with something or someone due to the potential risks, danger, or undesirability associated with them. It implies a complete lack of interest or inclination to engage with the mentioned thing or individual.
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I wouldn't bet on it
The definition of the idiom "I wouldn't bet on it" is expressing doubt or skepticism regarding the likelihood or certainty of a particular outcome or event.
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butter wouldn't melt
The idiom "butter wouldn't melt" refers to someone or something that appears innocent, sweet, or harmless, often implying that they are pretending to be innocent while concealing mischievous or deceitful intentions.
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butter wouldn't melt in someone's mouth
The idiom "butter wouldn't melt in someone's mouth" means that a person appears innocent, harmless, or well-behaved, despite potentially being deceitful, mischievous, or cunning. It suggests that the individual seems completely innocent, as if they would not even melt butter in their mouth because it would be too mischievous.
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look as if butter wouldn't melt in your mouth
The idiom "look as if butter wouldn't melt in your mouth" is used to describe someone who appears innocent, sweet, or naive, despite possibly having mischievous or deceitful intentions or actions. It implies a person's ability to hide their true nature or intentions behind a seemingly innocent demeanor.
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caught dead, wouldn't be
The idiom "caught dead, wouldn't be" is a phrase used to express extreme disdain or refusal towards a particular action, behavior, or item. It conveys that the speaker would never engage in or possess something, even if it were the only option available. It emphasizes the speaker's strong aversion or lack of interest in the subject.
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somebody wouldn't be seen/caught dead...
The idiom "somebody wouldn't be seen/caught dead..." is used to express a strong dislike or aversion towards something or someone. It implies that the person referred to would never associate or involve themselves with the mentioned thing or person under any circumstances. It emphasizes a strong sense of refusal or avoidance.
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wouldn't be caught dead (doing something)
The idiom "wouldn't be caught dead (doing something)" means that a person strongly dislikes or has no interest in a particular activity or behavior to the extent that they would never be associated with it, even if it meant they were dead. It expresses complete disapproval, disdain, or aversion towards that specific action.
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wouldn't shout if a shark bit him
The idiomatic expression "wouldn't shout if a shark bit him" is used to describe someone who is excessively calm, composed, or unflappable in the face of danger or pain. It implies that the person is so unreactive or stoic that even an extreme event like being bitten by a shark wouldn't provoke a reaction or any show of emotion. This phrase suggests a lack of outward expression or a high tolerance for discomfort or adversity.
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I wouldn't trust (someone) as far as I could throw (them)
The idiom "I wouldn't trust (someone) as far as I could throw (them)" is a figurative expression used to convey a deep lack of trust or skepticism towards someone. It suggests that the person is considered completely untrustworthy or unreliable, to the extent that one would not rely on them or have any faith in their words or actions. The phrase also emphasizes the idea that the speaker's physical ability to throw the person is minimal or nonexistent, emphasizing the extent of their doubt.
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You wouldn't dare (to do something)!
The idiom "You wouldn't dare (to do something)!" is a statement used to express disbelief or a challenge towards someone's willingness or courage to perform a certain action, often implying that the action is bold, risky, or socially unacceptable.
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wouldn't be seen dead (doing something)
The idiom "wouldn't be seen dead (doing something)" means that someone has a strong aversion or dislike towards a particular action or activity, to the extent that they would never engage in it under any circumstances. It implies that the person considers the action or activity to be beneath them or morally objectionable.
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wouldn't be seen dead in
The idiom "wouldn't be seen dead in" refers to a strong aversion or dislike towards something, to the extent that the person is unwilling to associate themselves with it even in death. It implies that the person finds the mentioned thing extremely unappealing or inappropriate for them, to the point that they would rather avoid it at all costs.
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wouldn't dream of (doing something)
The idiom "wouldn't dream of (doing something)" means that someone would never consider or think about doing a particular action because it is completely out of the question or against their principles.
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I wouldn't wish (something) on my worst enemy
The idiom "I wouldn't wish (something) on my worst enemy" implies that the speaker considers a particular situation or experience to be incredibly unpleasant or undesirable, to the extent that they wouldn't want even their worst enemy to go through it.
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he, she, etc. wouldn't harm/hurt a fly
The idiom "he, she, etc. wouldn't harm/hurt a fly" means that the person referred to is kind and gentle, and would never intentionally cause harm to anyone, including small and defenseless creatures like flies. It emphasizes their non-aggressive nature and their tendency to avoid violence or harm.
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he, she, etc. wouldn't say boo to a goose
The idiom "he/she wouldn't say boo to a goose" refers to someone who is extremely shy, timid, or easily frightened. It implies that the person lacks assertiveness or the ability to confront or contend with others. The phrase "not saying boo" suggests that the person does not possess the confidence to even utter a harmless sound like "boo" in the presence of a goose, which is generally considered non-threatening.
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wouldn't wish something on my, etc. worst enemy
The idiom "wouldn't wish something on my worst enemy" is used to express that the speaker finds a particular situation or experience so horrible, they would not want anyone, not even their greatest adversary, to go through it. It illustrates the extreme nature of the experience or event being described.
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wouldn't know (something) if it hit (one) in the face
The idiom "wouldn't know (something) if it hit (one) in the face" is used to describe someone who is completely oblivious or unaware of a particular thing or situation even if it was obvious or apparent. The person is so unaware that they would not recognize or realize something even if it were instantly and obviously presented right in front of them.
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wouldn't know (something) if (one) fell over one
The idiom "wouldn't know (something) if (one) fell over one" is used to describe someone who lacks knowledge or awareness about a particular subject, often implying that they are oblivious or oblivious to obvious signs or clues related to it. It suggests that even if the person were to encounter or stumble upon the thing they are unaware of, they still wouldn't recognize or understand it.
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wouldn't hurt a fly
The idiom "wouldn't hurt a fly" is used to describe someone who is gentle, pacifistic, or non-violent by nature. It suggests that the person is extremely kind and would never intentionally harm anyone, not even a tiny insect like a fly.
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I wouldn't touch (someone or something) with a ten-foot pole
The idiom "I wouldn't touch (someone or something) with a ten-foot pole" means that one wants to avoid any involvement or association with a particular person or thing. It implies a strong aversion or reluctance towards being associated with the person or thing in question.
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I wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole
The idiom "I wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole" is a phrase used to convey extreme unwillingness or aversion towards a particular person, situation, or thing. It implies that the speaker wants no association or involvement with the mentioned subject.
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wouldn't touch with a ten-foot pole
The idiom "wouldn't touch with a ten-foot pole" means to refuse or avoid involvement in something due to it being dangerous, repulsive, or undesirable. It implies strong aversion or a complete lack of interest in something.
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wouldn't hurt (or harm) a fly
The idiom "wouldn't hurt a fly" means that someone is extremely gentle and kind, indicating that they would never intentionally harm or even inconvenience someone or something, even if it is as harmless as a fly. It is used to describe people who are very kind-hearted, gentle, and non-violent in nature.
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wild horses wouldn't drag (one) to (something)
The idiom "wild horses wouldn't drag (one) to (something)" means that no force or persuasion imaginable could compel or convince someone to do a certain thing. It expresses an extreme unwillingness or resistance to participate in a particular activity or situation.
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it wouldn't hurt to (have or do something)
The idiom "it wouldn't hurt to (have or do something)" suggests that there is no harm or negative consequences in obtaining or taking a certain action. It indicates that the action or possession in question could be beneficial or useful, and taking it would not cause any harm.
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wouldn't if I were you
The idiom "wouldn't if I were you" is a phrase used to give someone advice or express caution, indicating that the speaker would not undertake a certain action in the given situation if they were in the other person's position. It implies that the suggested action might lead to negative consequences or unfavorable outcomes.
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wouldn't you know
The idiom "wouldn't you know?" is used to express surprise or resignation when something expected or typical happens, often with a hint of irony or frustration. It implies that the outcome or occurrence was predictable or inevitable.
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wouldn't you know it
The idiom "wouldn't you know it" is used to express frustration or surprise when something expected or predicted happens. It typically implies that the speaker already knew or suspected that the outcome would occur, but they still find it irritating or ironic.
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Yesterday wouldn't be too soon.
The idiom "Yesterday wouldn't be too soon" is used to express a strong desire or urgency for something to happen or be completed immediately, emphasizing the impatience or great need for resolution. It implies that waiting any longer is intolerable and that the desired action or outcome should have already occurred in the past.
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If frogs had wheels, they wouldn't bump their butts,
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land so poor it wouldn't even raise a fuss
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doesn't/wouldn't know (one's) arse from (one's) elbow
This idiom is used to describe someone who is lacking in intelligence or competence and cannot tell the difference between two very simple things or cannot do something basic. It is often used to emphasize someone's cluelessness or incompetence.
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it won't/wouldn't hurt somebody to do something
The idiom "it won't/wouldn't hurt somebody to do something" means that doing something will not cause any harm or negative consequences to someone. It suggests that the action is relatively harmless and may even be beneficial.
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doesn't/wouldn't know (one's) ass from (one's) elbow
This idiom is a humorous way of saying that someone is very confused, incompetent, or clueless. It implies that the person is so disoriented that they cannot even distinguish between their own body parts.
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