Example: Je moet soms water bij de wijn doen om problemen te vermijden.
Definition
"Water bij de wijn doen" is a Dutch expression meaning to make a compromise or concede something in order to avoid conflict or solve a problem. It implies adjusting one's demands or expectations to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
Translations
to compromise
ceder
cedir
faire des concessions
Kompromisse eingehen
fare compromessi
fazer concessões
Etymology
The phrase "water bij de wijn doen" literally means 'to put water in the wine.' It originates from the practice of diluting wine with water to make it less strong or more palatable, symbolizing the act of softening one's stance. Did you know this phrase captures the idea of moderation and flexibility in negotiations?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Water bij de wijn doen" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used expressions.
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to compromise