Example: Hij gooide een steen in de vijver om de vissen te verrassen.
Definition
"Een steen in de vijver gooien" is a Dutch expression meaning to create a disturbance or provoke a reaction by introducing a new idea or action, much like throwing a stone into a pond causes ripples. It often implies initiating change or stirring up discussion.
Translations
to shake things up
provocar debate
provocar debat
jeter un pavé dans la mare
einen Stein ins Wasser werfen
gettare un sasso nello stagno
atirar uma pedra no lago
Etymology
The phrase "een steen in de vijver gooien" literally means 'to throw a stone into the pond' in Dutch. It originates from the simple observation that throwing a stone into still water causes ripples, symbolizing how a small action can have wider effects. Did you know this metaphor highlights the impact of seemingly minor acts on larger situations?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Een steen in de vijver gooien" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to shake things up