pour cold water on
Synonym of throw cold water on (“to belittle or dismiss”).
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Don't pour cold water on my new idea.”
“I was excited about the trip, but my brother poured cold water on the plan by mentioning the high costs.”
“Although the team presented a bold vision for the future, the board members poured cold water on the proposal by highlighting the significant risks involved.”
- 01
a cold day in July
The time of occurrence of an event that will never happen.
- 02
blood in the water
In a competitive situation, the exhibition of apparent weakness or vulnerability by one party, especially when this leads to a feeling of vulnerability or greater pressure to perform on the part of the weak party, or enhanced expectation of victory by the others.
- 03
blood is thicker than water
Family relations and loyalties are stronger than relationships with people who are not family members.
- 04
blow hot and cold
To behave inconsistently; to vacillate or to waver, as between extremes of opinion or emotion.
- 05
blow out of the water
To trounce; to defeat thoroughly, as at a game or in battle.
- 06
carbonated water
Water that contains carbon dioxide dissolved in it under pressure and is intended for drinking.
- 07
carry someone's water
To do someone's bidding; to serve someone's interests.
- 08
carry water for
To perform menial tasks for; to serve; to assist; to be forced by politics or pragmatism to endorse or promote a belief, individual, or organization that in reality one does not fully support.
Last updated August 10, 2026