pour oil on troubled waters
English
Alternative forms
- cast oil on troubled waters
Etymology
From the ancient practice of pouring oil on the sea's waves to calm them.
Verb
pour oil on troubled waters
- (idiomatic) To calm, appease or quieten a person or situation.
- 2013, Jane Cable, The Cheesemaker's House (page 95)
- I remember him taking umbrage when he thought I was doubting his grandmother's skills so I am quick to pour oil on troubled waters.
- 2013, Jane Cable, The Cheesemaker's House (page 95)
Translations
calm, appease or quieten
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