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.
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.
See also: change, channel
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

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.

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
See also:
  • literally
  • être
  • be scratching (one's) head
  • be scratching your head
  • explode with
  • explode with (something)
  • (one) must have killed a Chinaman
  • Chinaman
  • drift with
  • drift with (something)
References in periodicals archive
'I change the channel to avoid it but then one is disappointed by watching World Cup,' said the chief justice in an obvious reference to Pakistan's below-par performance in the tournament.
CJ Khosa expresses disappointment over ruckus in parliament
Getting up to change the channel? Now we choose between hundreds of TV stations with a remote.
Disaster could strike if you lose power in your flicker dicker
What shows make you instantly change the channel or switch the television off?
Larry Lamb Q&A
Yes, but does she change the channel if her folks are watching too?
Emilia: Life is a Game of Moans; SQUARE EYES; Thinking outside the box with Nicola Methven & Mark Jefferies
These people are trying to be helpful, but they don't quite get it: only you can change the channel that your brain is tuned to.
The Autism Playbook for Teens
Sgo SECRETS FROM THE SKY Fri ITV 8pm NEW SERIES Those who suffer from vertigo may want to change the channel as this fascinating series provides a bird's eye view of the UK's most historic landmarks.
DON'T MISS..
ON A HIGH: Bettany and Ben Sgo SECRETS FROM THE SKY Fri ITV 8pm NEW SERIES Those who suffer from vertigo may want to change the channel as this fascinating series provides a bird's eye view of the UK's most historic landmarks.
DON'T MISS..
If you're leasing the modem/router from your Internet provider, call its tech support line and ask how to change the channel. If you own your router, follow the log-in and channel changing instructions in the manual.
Get faster and better Wi-Fi in your home
In order to do so, I immediately change the channel every time he appears by chance on my television screen.
Cherry confesses
25 ( ANI ): A sports channel has reportedly introduced magic horns that automatically change the channel to BeIN ahead of the FIFA World Cup that starts this summer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Now, magic vuvuzelas to switch back to favourite TV channel
This magic wand is so much fun you'll be channel surfing just for the lols Wand TV remote, PS37.99, Iwantoneofthose.com It won't 'Leviosa' the sofa but it will change the channel and turn the volume up for your viewing pleasure.
Julieann chooses... gadgets & gizmos
Who has time to get up and change the channel? And we hope the suspect, if he did this - Mr.
Comedy from crime
If the media busy then change the channel continue to transmit until it succeed or come to nothing for the transmission goes long time lead to overtime and exit.
Swarm-robot system based on wireless sensor network
The launch of the satelite will not only change the channel numbers line up but will also allow future channel growth.
Multichoice rearranges channels and offers more