trouble at mill
Problems outside the household, especially in the workplace.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The boss is angry today, so there is trouble at mill.”
“Everyone is quiet in the office because there is clearly trouble at mill regarding the new budget cuts.”
“Despite the outward appearance of corporate stability, the hushed conversations in the hallway suggested there was significant trouble at mill.”
- 01
borrow trouble
To worry about future events not in one's control and that may not come to pass.
- 02
bridge over troubled waters
Someone or something that provides support, comfort, and a means to overcome difficult times.
- 03
fish in troubled waters
To try to take advantage of a confused or troubled situation.
- 04
go through the mill
To experience the suffering or discipline necessary to bring one to a certain degree of knowledge or skill, or to a certain mental state.
- 05
grist for the mill
Something that is useful or that creates a favorable opportunity.
- 06
grist to the mill
Alternative form of grist for the mill.
- 07
pill mill
A clandestine operation where a medical worker illicitly offers prescription medication to patients in exchange for bribes.
- 08
pour oil on troubled waters
To calm, appease or quiet a person or situation.
Last updated August 10, 2026