Learning French: the origins and meaning of apporter de l'eau au moulin
This saying does not have a true English equivalent
This French phrase is similar to the idea of ‘adding fuel to the fire’ but without the malicious connotations
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Apporter de l'eau au moulin can be said in a range of formal and informal contexts to describe providing help in support of a person’s interests or arguments.
We look at the origins behind this French saying and unpick the metaphorical meaning behind it.
Read also: Learning French: the origins and meaning of se faire mener en bateau
What does apporter de l'eau au moulin mean?
It literally translates as, to bring water to the watermill, but is more similar to the English saying: to add grist to the mill.
It is used to describe a situation where someone has given useful arguments to support a cause. The cause could be complimentary or contradictory to this person's own interests.
It could be compared to the idea of ‘adding fuel to the fire’ but without the malicious connotations.
You might also come across an alternative version of the phrase: amener de l'eau au moulin.
What are the origins of apporter de l'eau au moulin?
Conflicting theories trace this phrase to different pre-industrial periods.
It can be linked back to when water mills were used to grind grain, relying on a stream of water to turn the millstone.
Apporter de l'eau au moulin therefore literally refers to the idea of supplying something with what it requires to operate effectively.
From the 16th Century, this expression described providing someone (or oneself) with a material advantage, gain or profit.
The expression has since developed to have a more general, figurative meaning: providing elements to support your personal arguments or interests, or sustain those of other people (either intentionally or unintentionally).
Read also: Learning French: what does franchement mean and when should it be used?
When do you say apporter de l'eau au moulin?
It can be said in a few different contexts, but is most often used in relation to a person. Do not forget to adapt grammar accordingly.
It can be said to introduce a new element, reinforce a point or support someone else’s argument:
De plus, pour apporter de l’eau à ton moulin, je pense que cet homme ne se rend même pas compte de ce qu’il dit. - What's more, to back up what you have just highlighted, I don’t think this man has a clue as to the full extent of what he is saying.
You can say this after (accidentally) helping someone on an opposing ‘team’:
To whom do you say apporter de l'eau au moulin?
It is considered neutral, colloquial language and can be used in a range of formal and informal situations.
You can say it with friends and family or even strangers and colleagues.
It could sometimes come across as being a bit of a mocking criticism, but should not cause any serious offence.
Read also: See inside our 13th-Century watermill home in the south of France
