Make Waves.
English
idiom
Cause attention or disruption.
Trusted by1.5M+English learners & teachers worldwide
Cause attention or disruption.
Trusted by1.5M+English learners & teachers worldwide
To cause controversy, attract attention, or disrupt the usual order of things.
When someone makes waves, they challenge the status quo or stir things up — sometimes deliberately, sometimes as a result of bold action.
It can be positive or negative.
"Rock the Boat"
—
To cause disruption by questioning the current situation — making waves is often broader in scope
"Stir the Pot"
—
To deliberately provoke conflict or controversy, with a more intentional and negative tone
"Make Waves"
—
Causing disruption, controversy, or attention by challenging the existing situation
This proposal is going to make waves — not everyone will like it.
Good. That's usually a sign it matters.
Should I say something about what I saw?
You'll make waves, but sometimes that's exactly what's needed.
He never speaks up in meetings.
Give it time — when he does, he makes waves.
