Pour/throw cold water on something
verb phrase
Discourage or prevent something.
I was excited about our road trip plan, but my father poured cold water on it, saying it's too dangerous.
Often appears as...
- pour cold water on a plan
- pour cold water on an idea
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
Discourage or prevent something.
I was excited about our road trip plan, but my father poured cold water on it, saying it's too dangerous.
Often appears as...
- pour cold water on a plan
- pour cold water on an idea
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphorical Use
The phrase is not about literal water, but symbolizes discouragement or negativity.
The critic threw cold water on the new play, calling it uninspired.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Emotion
It often expresses a strong negative reaction or opinion.
When I suggested working late, my team poured cold water on the idea.
Pro Tip 3/3Idiomatic Caution
Use this phrase carefully; it can sound blunt or harsh if misapplied.
Be mindful not to pour cold water on someone's dreams without a gentle approach.
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphorical Use
The phrase is not about literal water, but symbolizes discouragement or negativity.
The critic threw cold water on the new play, calling it uninspired.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Emotion
It often expresses a strong negative reaction or opinion.
When I suggested working late, my team poured cold water on the idea.
Pro Tip 3/3Idiomatic Caution
Use this phrase carefully; it can sound blunt or harsh if misapplied.
Be mindful not to pour cold water on someone's dreams without a gentle approach.
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphorical Use
The phrase is not about literal water, but symbolizes discouragement or negativity.
The critic threw cold water on the new play, calling it uninspired.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Emotion
It often expresses a strong negative reaction or opinion.
When I suggested working late, my team poured cold water on the idea.
Pro Tip 3/3Idiomatic Caution
Use this phrase carefully; it can sound blunt or harsh if misapplied.
Be mindful not to pour cold water on someone's dreams without a gentle approach.
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