What does “Turn water into wine” mean?

"Turn water into wine" means to perform a miraculous transformation or change.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The magician was able to turn water into wine right before our eyes.

Example

She has the ability to turn water into wine with her creative ideas.

Example

The scientist's groundbreaking discovery could turn water into wine in the future

Is “Turn water into wine” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Turn water into wine” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Turn water into wine” effectively in context?

You can use "Turn water into wine" to describe a remarkable or extraordinary transformation or change. It emphasizes the idea of something ordinary or mundane being transformed into something extraordinary or valuable. For example, if someone has a talent for making something ordinary into something exceptional, you might say, 'She has the ability to turn water into wine with her creative ideas.'

1Magic or Illusion
The magician was able to turn water into wine right before our eyes.
2Creativity or Innovation
She has the ability to turn water into wine with her creative ideas.
3Scientific Breakthrough
The scientist's groundbreaking discovery could turn water into wine in the future.

Similar phrases to “Turn water into wine”:

Turn lead into gold

To transform something of little value into something highly valuable

Example

Her business acumen allowed her to turn lead into gold with her investments.

Make something out of nothing

To create or achieve something significant from very little or nothing at all

Example

With her resourcefulness, she was able to make something out of nothing and build a successful business.

Bring something to life

To make something dull or lifeless become vibrant and exciting

Example

His energetic performance brought the play to life and captivated the audience.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Turn water into wine” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Turn water into wine" can be traced back to the Bible. In the New Testament, Jesus is said to have performed a miracle by turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana. This event symbolizes his divine power and ability to perform miraculous transformations.

Is “Turn water into wine” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Turn water into wine" is not as common as some other idioms, but it is still recognizable and understood by many English speakers. It is often used in more figurative or metaphorical contexts rather than literal ones.

What tone does “Turn water into wine” have?

"Turn water into wine" conveys a tone of awe and amazement. It is used to describe something that is truly extraordinary or seemingly impossible. The phrase carries a sense of wonder and admiration for the transformative power being described.

Can “Turn water into wine” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Turn water into wine" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in everyday conversations as well as in more formal contexts such as presentations, writing, or professional discussions.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The artist's work has the ability to turn water into wine with its beauty and depth.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He can "turn water into wine"' to imply someone's exceptional abilities.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

perform a miracle
create magic
achieve the impossible
transform the ordinary
work wonders

Antonyms

keep things as they are
maintain the status quo
leave things unchanged
accept the ordinary
settle for less