make waves

Are you using the idiom make waves but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the make waves idiom and the situations in which it is used.

Meaning of "make waves"

Meaning

The phrase “make waves” has two primary meanings. The first is to cause disruption or upset the status quo in a particular situation. It also means to be noticeable and stand out from the crowd. This can be either in a positive or a negative way.

Etymology

The phrase “make waves” has been around since at least the early 19th century. Its first known usage was in an 1817 novel written by John Quincy Adams. The phrase appeared in the novel The Renegade, where Adams wrote: “I began to make some stir, and create some little waves.” The phrase is likely derived from the visual example of throwing a stone into a pond and creating waves.

Usage

The phrase “make waves” is most often used to describe someone or something that is disruptive or causes a disturbance. It can also be used to describe someone or something that stands out from the crowd in a positive way. For example, someone who stands up for what they believe in, or who is making a daring decision, can be described as “making waves”.

Example Sentences

• My boss was not happy when I suggested a new way of doing things - I guess I made some waves.
• He made waves at the meeting by challenging the accepted opinion.
• She made waves when she became the first woman in her industry to be promoted to a high-level position.
• Tom's innovative ideas are making waves in the tech industry.

The power of idioms transcends languages!

"Putting the cart before the horse" is an English idiom that means doing things in the wrong order. In Russian, the similar idiom is "Кладёт колесо впереди лошади," which translates to "Putting the cart before the horse." This idiom emphasizes the idea that doing things in the wrong order can lead to confusion and problems down the line.