To calm down the tense situation, to sooth someone in anger or tension
Etymology:
- This is an old expression which traces its roots back to 731 A.D .The expression refers to the belief prevalent at that time according to which if you poured oil on stormy waves that rose high when strong and enraged, it would calm them or settle them down. Now the expression refers to pacifying or to calm down any disturbed or tense situation anywhere on land or sea. It could also refer to mollifying an enraged person who seems to get out of control.
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Submitted on February 25, 2019
Additional definitions for 'Pour Oil on Troubled Waters':
| pour oil on troubled waters | To calm something or someone who is tenacious or misbehaving. |
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"Pour Oil on Troubled Waters." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 22 Dec. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/pour-oil-on-troubled-waters_44946>.
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