The phrase "poured oil troubled waters" means to calm a difficult situation by using tact or diplomacy. In terms of spelling, "poured" is pronounced as /pɔːd/ with the vowel sounds of "or" and "d" sounded separately. "Oil" is pronounced as /ɔɪl/ with the diphthong "oi" followed by the consonant "l". "Troubled" is pronounced as /ˈtrʌbld/ with a short "u" sound followed by the consonants "b" and "ld". "Waters" is pronounced as /ˈwɔːtərz/ with the diphthong "aw" followed by the consonant sounds "t" and "z".
"Poured oil on troubled waters" is an idiomatic expression that means an attempt to calm down or diffuse a tense or volatile situation. The phrase originates from a metaphorical application of adding oil to turbulent or choppy waters, which causes the waves to subside and regain a sense of tranquility.
Typically, this expression is used to describe a person's actions when they intervene and lessen conflicts, disputes, or arguments by adopting a conciliatory or soothing approach. By metaphorically pouring oil on troubled waters, the individual aims to smooth out differences, relax tensions, and restore harmony among conflicting parties.
The phrase can also be used to describe a situation where someone tries to avoid the escalation of a potential conflict by employing thoughtful and considerate actions or words. In doing so, they hope to reduce animosity, promote understanding, and foster a peaceful resolution.
The concept of pouring oil on troubled waters conveys the idea of actively seeking harmony, reconciliation, and compromise. It recognizes the volatility and turbulence of the situation and emphasizes the importance of mitigating it through acts of goodwill and diplomacy.