Tag Archives: calm down

Idiom of the day

Pour oil on troubled waters

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Meaning: To calm a tense or difficult situation; to ease conflict or soothe disagreements.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After their heated argument, she stepped in to pour oil on troubled waters and bring them back to a calm discussion.”
  2. “The manager poured oil on troubled waters by addressing everyone’s concerns and finding a compromise.”
  3. “His calming words poured oil on troubled waters during the family dispute.”

Origin:
This idiom derives from the ancient practice of pouring oil on water to reduce waves and calm the surface. Sailors observed that oil spreads out on water and decreases its turbulence. Over time, this literal act became a metaphor for bringing peace and resolving conflicts. It has been in use since at least the 16th century.

Pour oil on troubled waters
Idiom of the day

Cool your jets

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Meaning: This idiom means to calm down, relax, or slow down, especially when someone is excited, agitated, or acting hastily.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “I know you’re excited about the trip, but cool your jets; we still have to finish packing.”
  2. “Cool your jets, we need to think this through before making a decision.”
  3. “She was so angry that I had to tell her to cool her jets and take a few deep breaths.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “cool your jets” is rooted in aviation and became popular in the mid-20th century. Jets, particularly jet engines, can get extremely hot and require cooling to function properly. Telling someone to “cool their jets” is metaphorically advising them to reduce their excitement or agitation, similar to how a jet engine needs to cool down to prevent overheating. The phrase effectively conveys the idea of calming down and taking a moment to relax before proceeding.

Cool your jets