What Does Wide Berth Mean? (Definition & Everyday Use)
Wide berth means maintaining a significant distance from something or someone to avoid danger or trouble. In shipping, to “give a ship a wide berth” means steering well clear to prevent collision, especially in poor visibility or crowded waters.
What does wide berth mean?
To keep far enough away from a person, object, or situation to avoid potential harm, conflict, or inconvenience.
Wide Berth Meaning in Maritime Context
In maritime navigation, a wide berth refers to the safe practice of leaving enough space between vessels, docks, or hazards. This is critical for:
- Safe maneuvering—especially for large, slow-to-turn ships
- Avoiding grounding, collisions, or accidents
- Navigating in fog, at night, or in busy ports
Maritime Safety Table: Wide Berth Examples
| Situation |
Why Give a Wide Berth? |
Typical Distance |
| Passing anchored ships |
Prevent anchor chain tangles |
2+ ship lengths |
| Navigating narrow channels |
Allow maneuvering space |
100–500 meters |
| Near dangerous obstacles |
Avoid collision/grounding |
As per navigational charts |
Pro Tip: Always check local port regulations for minimum safe distances when giving a wide berth.
Wide Berth Origin: Nautical Roots
The phrase wide berth originated in the Age of Sail (1600s–1800s).
- Berth meant “a place where a ship may lie at anchor.”
- Giving a “wide berth” meant anchoring far enough from other vessels or hazards to ensure safety.
Wide berth origin:
- First recorded in nautical logs as early as the 18th century
- Later adopted into everyday English to mean “keeping away from trouble”
How to Use “Wide Berth” in Modern English
- Literal (Maritime):
- “Ships must give wide berth to each other when anchoring in a crowded harbor.”
- Figurative (Everyday speech):
- “Give the construction zone a wide berth during your morning commute.”
- “He gave his ex-boss a wide berth at the conference.”
Wide Berth vs. Berth Ship
| Term |
Meaning |
Usage Example |
| Wide Berth |
Safe distance between vessels or things |
“Give a wide berth to the ferry.” |
| Berth Ship |
The act of mooring a ship in a berth |
“The cargo ship berthed at Pier 8.” |
FAQs
What does “give a wide berth” mean?
To intentionally keep a safe or respectful distance from a person, place, or hazard.
Where did the phrase “wide berth” come from?
It originated in mariner’s language, describing how ships anchor or sail far from each other to avoid collision.
How is “a wide berth” used outside shipping?
It means to avoid someone or something—usually because it’s risky, unpleasant, or potentially troublesome.
What’s the difference between berth and wide berth?
A berth is a mooring spot for a ship; a wide berth is the extra space given for safety.
Is “wide berth” still important in modern shipping?
Absolutely! Safe distances are mandatory for navigation, docking, and anchoring to avoid accidents.
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