[Idiom] TEST WATERS. - How to Gauge Success Before Fully Committing

Try something to see if it will be successful.

Test waters" is an idiom that suggests a cautious approach to a new or uncertain situation. It means to try something out to gauge its potential success before making a significant commitment. For example, a company might launch a product in a small market to see how it performs before rolling it out nationwide. Similarly, an individual might start a relationship with casual dates to understand compatibility before deciding on a deeper commitment. This phrase highlights the wisdom of cautious experimentation and gradual progression in unfamiliar territories.

Example Sentences

1. He's just testing the waters, seeing if his new software idea is well-received.

   He is subtly exploring how others might respond to his new software idea before fully committing to it.

2. Before diving into the project, they decided to test the waters with a small pilot study.

   They conducted a small scale preliminary study to see how feasible the project might be before fully engaging in it.

3. Layla tested the waters by mentioning her idea briefly at the meeting to gauge interest.

   Layla casually brought up her idea in a meeting to see how others would react to it.