How to Pronounce "chum in the water"
expression
CHUM in thuh WAW-ter
CHUM in thuh WAW-tuh
Definition
Originally, "chum in the water" refers to pieces of bait dropped in water to attract fish or sharks. In conversation, it's used metaphorically for something that attracts a lot of attention, especially from people eager to take advantage.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈtʃəm/ /ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈwɔtɝ
British English
tʃˈʌm/ /ˈɪn/ /ðə, ði/ /wˈɔːtɐ
Simplified Pronunciation
US
CHUM in thuh WAW-ter
UK
CHUM in thuh WAW-tuh
Listen in Context
The mistake was like chum in the water for the competition.
When she announced her resignation, it was chum in the water for reporters.
Posting private information online is like throwing chum in the water for hackers.
After the rumor broke, it was chum in the water for gossip blogs.