troubled waters

American  

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.

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Etymology

Origin of troubled waters

First recorded in 1575–85

Example Sentences

Whatever move they make next, Venkatesham and Lange have navigated Spurs into troubled waters and must now find a way out.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

But the nation still faces — and hasn’t yet fallen over — the precipice between troubled waters and full-on crisis, they said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 12, 2025

The World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, finds itself navigating troubled waters.

From New York Times • Jan. 14, 2023

Winfrey reflected on her dad, Vernon Winfrey, as "a bridge over troubled waters."

From Salon • Aug. 2, 2022

“His presence,” Myrta said, “was like oil on troubled waters, as mother often said to him. He was so kind, so gentle and thoughtful that we forgot our cares and worries.”

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson