change the channel

change the channel

1. Literally, to switch from one television station (or "channel") to another. Never change the channel during the game! We might miss something! I'm not really paying attention to that show, so feel free to change the channel. Quick, change the channel—Ella just texted that she's gonna be on the 5 o'clock news!

2. slang To introduce a different topic of discussion, usually intentionally. I changed the channel after that last remark made Jeff and Bill visibly tense. Don't try to change the channel on me—I know one of you kids dented my car! OK, I think it's best we change the channel now. Politics shouldn't be discussed at a diner party.

See also: change, channel

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

change the channel

Sl. to switch to some other topic of conversation. Just a minute. I think you changed the channel. Let's go back to the part about you owing me money. Let's change the channel here before there is a fight.

See also: change, channel

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

change the channel

tv. to switch to some other topic of conversation. Let’s change the channel here before there is a fight.

See also: change, channel

McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.