oil and water



oil and water

Two objects, elements, factors, forces, people, etc., that do not or cannot mix together readily. (Usually used comparatively, as in "X and Y are like/as oil and water.") Refers to the natural tendency of oil and water to separate. My dad is like oil and water with my mom's boyfriend, so I don't know how they're going to get through the family reunion in each other's company. The more I pay attention to the news, the more it seems that politics and common sense are as compatible as oil and water.
See also: and, oil, water

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
ElseEL-se (Danish, Norwegian), EL-sə (German, Dutch)Danish, Norwegian, German, Dutch
GayelordGAY-lordEnglish (Rare)
Tifawt-Northern African, Berber
Swaran-Punjabi
Sam (2)-Persian, Persian Mythology
Berker-Turkish