“Rock the boat” is the name of a popular song, but it is also a popular idiomatic phrase used by people all the time. If you were thinking you had to be on a boat in the water to “rock the boat” you would be wrong. In the idiomatic sense, this phrase has nothing to do with being out at sea. Here you will find the meaning of this term, the information about its origin, and some example sentences and conversations to help you gain a more profound understanding of this phrase. Lastly, you will see some alternative words and phrases you can use that are synonymous with this idiom.
Rock The Boat
Rock The Boat Meaning
The idiom “rock the boat” is a phrase that means cause or stir up some trouble in an existing situation.
Origin of this idiom
The idiomatic phrase “rock the boat” was first recorded being used in 1914 by William Jennings Bryan. Bryan was a lawyer, statesman, and politician who was quoted as saying “The man who rocks the boat ought to be stoned when he gets back on shore.” Bryan was saying that people who cause trouble or drama should be eliminated from a situation. Although this is a bit over-dramatic, people should take it to mean that little attention should be given to people who are known to stir up trouble and drama during a situation just to garner attention.
“Rock The Boat” Examples
Example Sentences
- Sometimes one of the best decisions that you can make is deciding not to rock the boat.
- Before deciding to rock the boat, be sure the situation is major enough to warrant it.
- Don’t rock the boat until the negotiations are finished, okay!
- I said I didn’t want to rock the boat in any way.
- We have a pretty good life here. Why rock the boat?
- They do not want to rock the boat when things are unstable.
Example Conversations
A conversation between father and son.
- Son: Dad, I have a question.
- Father: Okay.
- Son: I am having some issues at school with a classmate. They are small issues though. I don’t know if I should let them go or address the situation.
- Father: All I can tell you to think about the situation and decide if it is worth rocking the boat or not. Sometimes it is better to leave a situation alone.
A discussion between two co-workers.
- Co-worker 1: I am noticing that Marty likes to rock the boat.
- Co-worker 2: I agree. He seems to enjoy instigating problems between people.
- Co-worker 1: I think he just likes the attention.
Alternatives to “Rock The Boat”
There are many alternative words or phrases that someone can use to replace the phrase “rock the boat” in conversation to convey the same meaning. Some of the other words or phrases that you can use include:
- Cause trouble
- Disturb the balance
- Complain
- Make waves
- Make trouble
- Create problems
What does “Rock The Boat” Mean? | Picture
Last Updated on March 19, 2020