Keep the wolf at bay: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Keep the wolf at bay” mean?

"Keep the wolf at bay" means to prevent or avoid a difficult or dangerous situation.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He always carries a pepper spray to keep the wolf at bay.

Example

Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help keep the wolf at bay.

Example

She took extra precautions to keep the wolf at bay during flu season

Is “Keep the wolf at bay” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Keep the wolf at bay” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Keep the wolf at bay” effectively in context?

You can use "Keep the Wolf at Bay" to describe the act of preventing or avoiding a difficult or dangerous situation. It emphasizes the need to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. For example, if someone is concerned about their financial stability, you might say, 'He always saves money to keep the wolf at bay.'

• 1. Safety

  She installed a security system to keep the wolf at bay and protect her home from burglars.

• 2. Health

  Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help keep the wolf at bay and prevent chronic diseases.

• 3. Prevention

  She took extra precautions to keep the wolf at bay during flu season by washing her hands frequently and avoiding crowded places.

Similar phrases to “Keep the wolf at bay”:

Stay on guard

To remain vigilant and cautious

Example

She always stays on guard to protect herself from potential dangers.

Keep one's wits about

To stay alert and think clearly in challenging situations

Example

He kept his wits about him during the crisis and made rational decisions.

Stay out of harm's way

To avoid dangerous situations or places

Example

She decided to stay out of harm's way and not attend the protest.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Keep the wolf at bay” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Keep the Wolf at Bay" is unknown.

Is “Keep the wolf at bay” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Keep the Wolf at Bay" is a well-known idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe their efforts to prevent or avoid difficult or dangerous situations.

What tone does “Keep the wolf at bay” have?

"Keep the Wolf at Bay" conveys a tone of caution and preparedness. It suggests the importance of being proactive and taking measures to protect oneself.

Can “Keep the wolf at bay” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Keep the Wolf at Bay" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of avoiding or preventing challenging situations. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He always carries a pepper spray to keep the wolf at bay.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "keep the wolf at bay"!' to imply the need for caution.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• avoid trouble
• prevent disaster
• stay safe
• stay away from danger
• keep out of harm's reach

Antonyms

• invite trouble
• embrace danger
• welcome difficulties
• court disaster
• expose oneself to harm