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Definitions

rock the boat

VERB
disturb the status quo
Synonyms
WEAK
cause trouble challenge the status quo complain disagree disturb disturb the balance make a stink make waves not conform object protest stir things up upset the apple cart

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“The supply shocks from either would already rock the boat; both together would capsize global markets like a perfect storm,” said Raj.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 12, 2026

"We didn't want to rock the boat too much because he seemed like he knew exactly what he was doing," she said.

From BBC • Dec. 18, 2024

He doesn’t want to rock the boat in any way.

From Salon • Apr. 12, 2024

“Therefore, the aim of communication following the end of the meeting will likely try to not rock the boat one way or the other.”

From Seattle Times • Mar. 6, 2024

In Bragg’s view, all that Crick did was to rock the boat.

From "Double Helix" by James D. Watson

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.