make waves
To cause a disturbance.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He tries not to make waves at his new job.”
“She knew that questioning the manager would make waves, but she felt the policy was unfair.”
“By challenging the long-standing traditions of the organization, the young activist was determined to make waves and force a necessary change in leadership.”
The idiom is derived from the physical disruptions caused by waves in water. The phrase entered the lexicon as a metaphor for causing trouble or disturbing a previously calm situation.
- 01
absence makes the heart grow fonder
One feels more love or affection for those one loves when parted from them.
- 02
cannot make it
Cannot reach satisfactory or expected standards or do something competently; describes someone in a hopeless situation.
- 03
catch a wave
To derive benefit from a fortunate opportunity; to experience a sudden increase in energy or luck.
- 04
doctors make the worst patients
It is difficult to advise people on subjects that they are experts on.
- 05
enough to make a cat laugh
Very outlandish or outrageous.
- 06
enough to make the angels weep
Something so distressing that it causes one to lose hope and faith.
- 07
fine feathers make fine birds
Something that appears beautiful or good is by definition beautiful or good.
- 08
have it made
To have accomplished all there is to do; to have no further work or difficulty.
Last updated August 10, 2026