pɔːr koʊld ˈwɔːtər ɒn
Emotions
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- Pouring cold water onto something
What does "pour cold water on" mean?
- To discourage or dampen enthusiasm for something
- To express negativity about an idea or plan
Examples
- Don't pour cold water on her ideas.
- The manager poured cold water on our expansion plans.
- Why do you always pour cold water on my suggestions?
Origin
From the effect of cold water extinguishing fire or cooling excitement. Used figuratively since the 1800s.
How to use it
Usually negative—describes unwelcome discouragement. Common in business contexts.
Similar expressions
discourage
dampen
put a damper on
rain on parade
Opposites
encourage
support
enthuse about
Related idioms
- hang in there
To persevere during difficult times
- lose your temper
To become suddenly angry
- get cold feet
To become nervous or afraid before doing something important
- on top of the world
Feeling extremely happy and successful
- rain on someone's parade
To spoil someone's plans or enthusiasm
- blow off steam
To release pent-up energy or emotion through activity
Use it in a practice answer
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