# pour cold water on

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/pour-cold-water-on
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Synonym of throw cold water on (“to belittle or dismiss”).

## Examples

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.