there must be something in the water
The idiom "there must be something in the water" humorously suggests a common cause for unusual traits or behaviors in a specific place.
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Definition
C1General
(idiomatic, humorous)Used to humorously suggest that a specific place or group has an unusually common trait or behavior, implying a mysterious or surprising cause.
Example
- Everyone in that office is so cheerful all the time; there must be something in the water.
- The students in this class are all incredibly talented; there must be something in the water.
B2Literal
(literal)Indicates the presence of an unknown object or substance in a body of water.
Example
- The fish are behaving strangely; there must be something in the water.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "there must be something in the water":