水みずを差さす

expression, godan verb (-su)

pour water into; dilute with water

Literal meaning: to add water to something, often to dilute or adjust consistency. Used for drinks, soups, paints, etc.

• スープが濃こすぎたので、水みずを差さして薄うすめた。

  The soup was too thick, so I added water to thin it.

• 絵えの具ぐに水みずを差さして、色いろを薄うすくする。

  I add water to the paint to lighten the color.

expression, godan verb (-su)

throw cold water on; put a damper on; hinder

Idiomatic use: to spoil a good atmosphere, interrupt a smooth conversation, or discourage someone's enthusiasm. Often used when someone says or does something that ruins the mood.

• 彼かれの一ひと言ことが楽たのしい雰ふん囲い気きに水みずを差さした。

  His one remark threw cold water on the cheerful atmosphere.

• せっかく盛もり上あがっているのに、水みずを差さすようなことを言いわないで。

  We're finally getting excited, so don't say something that will put a damper on it.