The Expression

The expression for this week is “test the waters.” It is not a phrasal verb, and it must be changed to fit the tense you are speaking in.

The Meaning

“Test the waters” means to try something in a small way. Just like “try your hand at,” it usually means to try something for the first time.

How do we use it

We use this expression as a sentence, or as part of a sentence. And, as I said above, the tense must be correct.

Examples

Here are some easy examples to practice. Try reading them out loud so you can get used to how this expression sounds.

If you’re not sure you will like web design, just test the waters.

When I was younger, I tested the waters and realized that teaching English was a good career for me.

You don’t have to start speaking English in big crowds. Test the waters. Speak to yourself in a mirror.

Your Turn

Now it’s your turn to practice. If you want to see and here more examples, watch the video. Then leave a comment with your own examples. Why not test the waters and see if you can use this expression today.