To muddy the waters
Example: Don't muddy the waters by adding confusing details now.
Definition
"To muddy the waters" means to make a situation or issue more confusing or unclear, often by introducing unnecessary or misleading information. For example, saying 'Don't muddy the waters by adding confusing details now' warns against complicating an already understood matter.
Etymology
The phrase "to muddy the waters" originates from the literal act of stirring up sediment in water, making it murky and difficult to see through. This metaphorical expression has been used in English since at least the 16th century to describe actions that obscure clarity or understanding, much like muddy water obscures vision. Did you know that this imagery vividly captures how clarity becomes impossible when the 'waters' of a discussion are disturbed?
Learn to use this expression actively
"To muddy the waters" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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