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to test the waters
01
to examine the chances of something's success before trying it
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "test the waters" and when to use it?
The idiom "test the waters" has nautical origins and refers to the practice of checking the depth of water in an unfamiliar area before proceeding with a boat or ship. This was crucial for navigational safety, ensuring that the water was deep enough to avoid grounding or other hazards. In a figurative sense, the idiom is used to describe the act of cautiously trying out or assessing a situation before fully committing to it, particularly in matters of decision-making or exploration.
Example
The company decided to test the waters in international markets with a limited product release to assess demand and response.
They decided to test the waters by launching a small pilot project to gauge public interest before investing in a larger venture.
Rather than committing to a long-term relationship right away, they agreed to test the waters and go on a few casual dates first.
Before making a career change, she decided to test the waters by taking on a part-time job in the new field.
In negotiations, it's often wise to test the waters by proposing initial terms to see how the other party responds before finalizing an agreement.
