He tried to pour oil on troubled waters after the argument.
pour oil on troubled waters
idiomTo calm, appease or quiet a person or situation.
Origin
disputed originFrom the ancient practice of pouring oil on the seawaves in order to calm them.
The manager stepped in to pour oil on troubled waters when the two coworkers started shouting at each other.
Recognizing the rising tension in the boardroom, the diplomat spoke calmly, hoping to pour oil on troubled waters before the negotiations collapsed entirely.
- 01
add oil
Synonym of let's go: a cheer of encouragement, support, etc.
- 02
bridge over troubled waters
Someone or something that provides support, comfort, and a means to overcome difficult times.
- 03
burn the midnight oil
To work studiously, especially late into the night.
- 04
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.
- 05
fish in troubled waters
To try to take advantage of a confused or troubled situation.
- 06
muddy the waters
To make something unclear and difficult to understand.
- 07
oil and water
Two things which are incapable of mixing or coexisting harmoniously with each other.
- 08
oil burner
A device whose operation causes apparent combustion of lubricating oil.