Pour cold water on

Meaning

The idiom "pour cold water on" means to ruin someone's plans or destroy their mood by introducing an unpleasant or unwanted element into the situation. It is used to express disappointment, frustration, or a desire for something more positive or agreeable.

Usage

Here are five sentences using the idiom in different contexts:

• "He was really excited about the project until I poured cold water on it by reminding him of the budget constraints."
• "I tried to cheer up my friend, but she poured cold water on my efforts when she said she wasn't interested in my advice."
• "The bad weather ruined our plans for a picnic. It was a real downer." (Said with a sarcastic tone)
• "He proposed a romantic dinner for two, but I poured cold water on it by reminding him of the dishes he had to cook later."
• "I suggested we go out for drinks after work, but my colleague poured cold water on the idea by saying she already had plans."

Roots and History

The idiom "pour cold water on" has been used in English since at least the 19th century. One theory suggests that it originated from the practice of throwing water on someone to wake them up, which could be perceived as cold and unpleasant. Another theory is that it comes from the idea of pouring water on a fire to put it out, which could be seen as dampening someone's enthusiasm or hope.

Synonyms in English

• "Dampen one's spirits"
• "Put a damper on"
• "Sour the mood"

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Tirar agua fría sobre alguien" (to pour cold water on someone)
• French: "Jeter de l'eau froide sur quelqu'un" (to pour cold water on someone)
• Italian: "Gettare acqua fredda su qualcuno" (to pour cold water on someone)
• German: "Freiwasser aufzutoppen" (to douse with cold water)
• Japanese: "濡らす" (to wet)

Similar Idioms

• still waters run deep

• play it by ear

• a drowning man will clutch at a straw