2006-10-18 22:26:24 · 5 answers · asked by question mark 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
While the literal water analogy is correct, it has come to mean trying something in a small way before you commit to it entirely - for example, if you have what you think is a great idea for work, you might mention one small aspect of it to your boss to see if he/she is receptive before you lay out the whole plan.
2006-10-20 21:14:32 · answer #1 · answered by dreamweaver.629ok 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When trying something new, or for the first time.
It comes from feeling the temperature of water before jumping in a pool, but applies to anything.
2006-10-19 05:28:26 · answer #2 · answered by Louis T 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
both Louis and Carer are right about trying something for the first time before committing oneself.
it just struck me, however, that 'testing the waters' is often used in the context of 'testing for any negative or adverse reactions', adverse either to ourselves or to others.
2006-10-19 05:46:10 · answer #3 · answered by saberlingo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you go swimming, you sometimes test the temperature with your toe before jumping in, and "testing the water" is the same. It means trying an idea out before committing yourself
2006-10-19 05:29:50 · answer #4 · answered by Carer 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am testing the waters of putting all my money into this stock because I am a little weary of what it has in store for me and before I jump in I want to make sure its safe first.
2006-10-19 21:23:26 · answer #5 · answered by jennyve25 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋