muddy the waters

bridge over troubled waters

Someone or something that provides support, comfort, and a means to overcome difficult times.

cast one's bread upon the waters

To perform a kind deed or favor without the motivation of any immediate reward or benefit to oneself, though with the possibility of eventual future return.

fish in troubled waters

To try to take advantage of a confused or troubled situation.

knee-deep in the Big Muddy

Stuck in a predicament; mired in a difficult situation, especially one resulting from poor judgment or bad leadership.

muddy up

To confuse (an issue or situation); to obscure or obfuscate (an issue or situation).

pour oil on troubled waters

To calm, appease or quiet a person or situation.

test the waters

To explore or probe, as before making a commitment.