in troubled waters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in troubled waters" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation that is difficult, chaotic, or unstable, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The company found itself in troubled waters after the sudden resignation of its CEO, leading to uncertainty among employees and investors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

"He's trying to fish in troubled waters".

The New York Times

But some are trying to fish in troubled waters".

The Guardian

Fishing in troubled waters, or, The consequence of invading matrimonial rights & privileges [graphic].

Yale University

2. Fishing in troubled waters, or, The consequence of invading matrimonial rights & privileges [graphic].

Yale University

1. Fishing in troubled waters, or, The consequence of invading matrimonial rights & privileges [graphic].

Yale University

6. Fishing in troubled waters, or, The consequence of invading matrimonial rights & privileges [graphic].

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Georgia should be added to the list, not because of its Russian minority (which is small), but because of a temptation on the part of some in Russia to fish for geopolitical advantage in the troubled waters of Georgian ethnic disputes and political vendettas.The short-sightedness of this sort of mischief-making is a lesson Russia should already have learned.

The Economist

"With the project in financial jeopardy and the real estate market treading in such troubled waters, and with a pending eminent domain lawsuit, it is time to rethink the Atlantic Yards project".

The New York Times

In early 1844, Halkett successfully tested a prototype boat-cloak on the River Thames, paddling it 15 km without taking on any water, despite, in his words, being "met by passed by and almost run down by various Metropolitan Steamers plying to and fro in their several vocations, and causing no little commotion in the troubled waters of the River".

Wikipedia

A different set of grants is aimed at restoring oyster habitat to curb pollution in more troubled waters.

The New York Times

The terrorists cannot foretell what the result will be, but they have a much better chance fishing in such troubled waters than when the political sea is calm.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in troubled waters", consider the maritime imagery it evokes. Ensure the context aligns with the idea of navigating or overcoming difficulties, rather than simply existing within them.

Common error

Avoid mixing the "in troubled waters" metaphor with unrelated imagery. For example, describing a business "in troubled waters" as also 'being on thin ice' can create a confusing and less effective image.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in troubled waters" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by describing the state or condition of something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it conveys that someone or something is experiencing difficulties or instability, similar to a ship navigating through rough seas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiomatic phrase "in troubled waters" effectively conveys a state of difficulty or instability, often used metaphorically across various contexts. Ludwig AI indicates its proper grammatical status and frequent usage, especially in news and academic writing. While versatile, it's important to maintain consistency in imagery and avoid mixing metaphors to ensure clarity. Consider alternatives like "in a difficult situation" or "facing adversity" for more formal or specific contexts. The phrase adds a touch of vividness when describing organizations, projects, or abstract concepts encountering challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a difficult situation

This is a more general and less figurative way to describe being "in troubled waters".

in a precarious position

This alternative emphasizes the instability and potential danger of the situation.

facing adversity

This phrase highlights the aspect of confronting challenges, similar to being "in troubled waters".

navigating challenges

This highlights the active effort of overcoming obstacles, similar to steering a ship "in troubled waters".

going through a rough patch

This is a more informal way of saying that someone is experiencing difficulties.

experiencing turmoil

This alternative emphasizes the internal or external chaos of the situation.

contending with difficulties

This phrase emphasizes the struggle against problems and hardships.

in dire straits

This phrase indicates a more severe and urgent state of trouble than simply being "in troubled waters".

in a crisis

This suggests a critical and often unexpected event that leads to instability.

undergoing hardship

Focuses specifically on the experience of suffering or difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "in troubled waters" in a sentence?

You can use "in troubled waters" to describe a situation filled with difficulties or instability. For example, "The company found itself in troubled waters after the scandal" or "The project is now in troubled waters due to budget cuts".

What's a more formal way to say "in troubled waters"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "in a difficult situation" or "in a precarious position". These options convey the same meaning without the idiomatic flair.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in troubled waters"?

The phrase "in troubled waters" is suitable when describing situations facing significant challenges or instability. It's especially fitting when the context involves navigation, progress, or potential setbacks.

Are there any common misinterpretations of "in troubled waters"?

Sometimes, "in troubled waters" might be confused with simply being 'busy' or 'occupied'. However, it specifically refers to situations marked by problems and potential failure, rather than just a high workload. Being "in a difficult situation" might be a better way of expressing this.