troubled waters

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

1. a confused or chaotic state of affairs:

   The situation was terrible, but like many politicians he was attracted by troubled waters.

Word History and Origins

Origin of troubled waters¹

First recorded in 1575–85

Example Sentences

“Troubled waters are slamming against some of our most fundamental principles,” he said.

From New York Times

“The economy is in troubled waters.”

From Seattle Times

It’s also a Biden noticeably advancing in age, experiencing some salient political weakness as an octogenarian trying to steer the country through troubled waters.

From Slate

Having gone undefeated in the opening 16 league matches, Celtic careered into troubled waters with some stodgy performances preceding successive defeats by Kilmarnock and Hearts this month.

From BBC

Fishing in Serbia’s troubled waters after a contested general election, Russia on Monday accused the West of orchestrating anti-government street protests in Belgrade, the Serbian capital, that flared into violence on Sunday evening.

From New York Times