Cause attention or disruption.
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To stir things up or upset the usual order.
When someone makes waves, they push against the way things are done, sometimes on purpose.
It can be a good thing or a bad one.
"Rock the Boat"
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To cause disruption by questioning the current situation — making waves is often broader in scope
"Stir the Pot"
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To deliberately provoke conflict or controversy, with a more intentional and negative tone
"Make Waves"
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Causing disruption, controversy, or attention by challenging the existing situation