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Learn more English in a Minute
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Introduction
Do you hate it when people pour cold water on your ideas, or is it like water off a duck's back? There are a few phrases in English using the word 'water'. Learn some of them here with Phil.
Phrases with 'water'
a fish out of water
someone who feels uncomfortable in an unfamiliar environment
- I took Mum to a heavy metal concert last night – she was like a fish out of water.
test the water
find out what people think of something before you do it
- I've got an idea for the new company logo, but I want to test the water before I bring it up at the meeting.
pour cold water on
be negative and discouraging about
- I keep coming up with ideas and you keep pouring cold water on them. Why don't you think of something for a change?!
like water off a duck's back
used to refer to an insult or criticism that does not bother someone
- I've told him that he needs to stop being rude to the customers, but he doesn't listen – it's like water off a duck's back.
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Download a free transcript!
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TRANSCRIPT
Note: This is not a word-for-word transcript.
Phil
Let's learn four phrases with 'water'.
A fish out of water is someone who feels uncomfortable in an unfamiliar situation.
I always feel like such a fish out of water at parties. I hate them.
Testing the water is when you try to find out what people think of something before you do it.
I think you need to test the water before suggesting this plan. I'm not sure people will like it.
If people don't like your idea, they might pour cold water on it – be negative about it.
It's only ever my plans you pour cold water on. I don't think you're being fair.
An insult or criticism that doesn't bother you is like water off a duck's back – it just runs off.
They had harsh words for him, but he's used to much worse, so it was like water off a duck's back.
I don't need to test the water – I know these phrases are great. Learn them now!
Next
Do you drink enough water? Learn about this topic in this episode of 6 Minute English.
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