Definitions
someone's quiet appearance can be deceiving
Suggest that a person who is reserved or introverted may have a depth of character or inner thoughts that are not immediately apparent.things may be more complicated than they seem
Imply that a seemingly calm or tranquil situation or person may actually hold hidden complexities or challenges.something is more profound or meaningful than it appears
Indicate that there is more to a situation or concept than meets the eye, and that deeper exploration or consideration is necessary to fully understand it.
Examples of Still waters run deep
She may seem quiet and reserved, but don't underestimate her - still waters run deep.
This idiom is used to describe someone who appears calm and unassuming on the surface, but in reality has a strong and complex personality. The phrase "still waters run deep" is a metaphor comparing the depth of a person's character to the depth of a still body of water, which may be hiding secrets or depths that are not immediately apparent.
The CEO of the company seemed calm and collected during the meeting, but it was clear that still waters ran deep as he expertly navigated the negotiations.
This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone's actions or behavior as well as their personality. Here, the CEO's calm demeanor is a sign of his depth of experience and expertise, as he skillfully manages the negotiations.
The new employee was quiet during the training session, but her still waters ran deep as she quickly picked up the necessary skills and excelled in her role.
This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used to describe someone's learning ability or performance. Here, the employee's quietness is not a sign of weakness or lack of ability, but rather a sign of her depth of focus and concentration as she learns the necessary skills.
The artist's paintings may seem simple and uncomplicated at first glance, but still waters run deep as they reveal complex emotions and themes.
This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe a work of art or creative expression. Here, the simplicity of the paintings is not a sign of lack of depth, but rather a sign of the artist's ability to convey complex emotions and themes in a subtle and nuanced way.
The old oak tree stood tall and still, its still waters running deep with the secrets of the forest.
This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used to describe a natural setting or environment. Here, the stillness of the tree is a sign of its depth of age and wisdom, as it has witnessed the secrets and mysteries of the forest over many years.
Conclusion
The idiom "still waters run deep" conveys the idea that there is more to a person or situation than meets the eye. It suggests that appearances can be deceiving and that quiet or calm individuals may actually hold great depths of character or hidden complexities. It can also be used to imply that something may be more profound or meaningful than it appears on the surface.This idiom is often used in a figurative sense, referring to the inner thoughts, emotions, or motivations of a person. It can also be applied to situations or concepts, indicating that there may be deeper layers or complexities to them that require further exploration or understanding.
Origin of "Still waters run deep"
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to an ancient Latin proverb, "mare tranquillitatis," which translates to "the sea is calm." This phrase was often used to describe a person who appeared calm on the surface but had great depths of knowledge or wisdom.
In the 17th century, the English poet and playwright Ben Jonson used a similar phrase in his play "The Devil is an Ass," stating, "Still waters run deep." This is believed to be the first recorded use of the idiom in its current form.
Over time, the idiom has evolved to have various interpretations and uses, but its original meaning of hidden depths or complexities has remained consistent. It is now a common phrase used in everyday language to describe a variety of situations and people.