English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Still waters run deep
Meaning
The idiom "still waters run deep" means that what is on the surface of a situation may not be the whole truth or the depths of the matter. It suggests that there is more to a situation than meets the eye and that one should not judge a book by its cover. This phrase has a metaphorical meaning, as it compares a calm and peaceful body of water to a complex or multi-faceted situation.
Usage
- "Don't be fooled by his calm demeanor; still waters run deep, and he may have some hidden agendas."
- "I thought she was just another typical tourist, but after talking to her for a while, I realized that still waters run deep, and there was more to her story than met the eye."
- "He looks like an ordinary guy, but I can tell you that still waters run deep, and he has some secrets that he's not telling anyone."
- "Don't underestimate this small town; still waters run deep, and there are some big players lurking beneath the surface."
- "I thought that she was just a shy and introverted person, but after getting to know her better, I realized that still waters run deep, and there was more depth to her personality than I initially thought." The usage of the idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used to suggest that someone or something is not as they appear or that there is more to a situation than meets the eye. The idiom can also be used to imply that one should not judge a book by its cover or that there are hidden agendas at play.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom "still waters run deep" is uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the 16th century. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from the Bible, where the book of James warns against judging a person based on their appearance. Another theory suggests that the phrase originated from an old proverb, "Don't judge a tree by its fruit," which was later adapted to refer to still waters run deep. Over time, the meaning and usage of the idiom have remained relatively consistent. However, it has become more commonly used in contemporary language and has gained widespread popularity through popular culture and literature.
Synonyms in English
- "There's more to this than meets the eye."
- "Don't judge a book by its cover."
- "There's something underneath."
- "There's more to it than meets the eye."
- "It goes deeper than that."
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "Il y a plus dans qu'il semble." (There is more than what seems)
- German: "Es gibt mehr darunter als man sieht." (There is more beneath than what you see)
- Spanish: "Hay más alla de lo visible." (There is more beyond the visible)
- Italian: "Ci sono più sotto della superficie." (There is more beneath the surface)
- Portuguese: "Existe mais que o que se vê." (There is more than what you see)