划清界限

划清界限

Literally means:

delimit a boundary

Actually means:

This phrase means making clear distinction between different types of people or things. It figuratively means one breaks off one's connection with someone else, or one keeps himself away from cer tain disturbance or somebody (who is held respon sible for certain trouble). When this phrase is used in the relation between a person and a matter,the latter usually is something unpleasant or involving obligations.

把不同的人物或事物清清楚楚地区别开来，不混在一起。也比喻某个人和另外的人完全脱离关系或不再交往，还比喻某个人跟某件事（或有关的责任人）没有干系或牵连。用于人与事情时，这事情通常是不好的或可能被追究责任的事。