Example: Él siempre lleva agua a su molino en las discusiones familiares.
Definition
"Llevar agua a su molino" is a Spanish expression meaning to act in a way that benefits oneself, especially by promoting one's own interests or arguments. For example, it describes someone who always steers discussions to support their own point of view.
Translations
to serve one's own interests
voor eigen parochie preken
portar aigua al seu molí
prêcher pour sa paroisse
Wasser auf die eigene Mühle leiten
Etymology
The phrase "llevar agua a su molino" literally means 'to carry water to one's mill.' Historically, mills required water to operate, so providing water ensured the mill kept running. Figuratively, it evolved to mean doing something that benefits oneself. Did you know this saying highlights self-interest by comparing personal gain to keeping a mill working?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Llevar agua a su molino" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C1) - parte 1", containing 120 commonly used expressions.
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to serve one's own interests