fish in troubled waters
Related to fish in troubled waters: fish for compliments
fish in troubled waters
To try to capitalize on or benefit from a situation, circumstance, or experience that is fraught with disorder, difficulty, confusion, stress, etc. No one really thought about the money lenders who were making cash hand over fist during the recession, fishing in the troubled waters many homeowners and small businesses found themselves in.
See also: fish, trouble, water
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
fish in troubled waters
Fig. to involve oneself in a difficult, confused, or dangerous situation, especially with a view to gaining an advantage. Frank is fishing in troubled waters by buying more shares of that company. They are supposed to be in financial difficulties. The company could make more money by selling armaments abroad, but they would be fishing in troubled waters.
See also: fish, trouble, water
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
fish in troubled waters
Try to take advantage of a confused situation. For example, He often buys up stock in companies declaring bankruptcy; fishing in troubled waters generally pays off . This term, first recorded in 1568, expresses the even older notion that fish bite more readily when seas are rough.
See also: fish, trouble, water
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
fish in troubled waters
If you fish in troubled waters, you try to get an advantage by getting involved in someone else's problems. We must be careful not to appear to be fishing in troubled waters.
See also: fish, trouble, water
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
fish in troubled waters
make a profit out of trouble or upheaval.See also: fish, trouble, water
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- troubled waters
- mixed up in (something)
- mix (one) up in (something)
- mix up in
- mixe
- mixed up in
- in a sticky situation
- a stepping stone
- have more than one string to (one's) bow
- come full circle