troubled waters

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

1. a confused or chaotic state of affairs:

   The situation was terrible, but like many politicians he was attracted by troubled waters.

Word History and Origins

Origin of troubled waters¹

First recorded in 1575–85

Example Sentences

And, moreover, there were very many others of the type that prefers troubled waters, because they are the best to fish in.

From Project Gutenberg

The Indians, profiting by these disorders, fished in troubled waters, and chased the whites—royalists or insurgents.

From Project Gutenberg

He was young, the world was large, and he hoped in some way or another to sail out of these troubled waters into a peaceful haven.

From Project Gutenberg

Are they floating down the troubled waters beneath the wreck of their vessel?

From Project Gutenberg

Passing around a point, Indians could be seen fishing in the troubled waters or camping upon the shore.

From Project Gutenberg