pour down the drain

brain drain

The migration of educated or talented people from less economically advanced areas to more economically advanced areas, especially to large cities or more developed nations.

circle the drain

To be in a rapid decline or in a state of downfall, especially as leading to an inevitable utter failure or destruction.

drain the python

To urinate.

drain the snake

To urinate.

go down the drain

Synonym of go down the toilet: to fail.

pour cold water on

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

pour cold water over

Synonym of throw cold water on.

pour fuel on the fire

Synonym of add fuel to the fire.