take in water

• Bezeichnet ein Schiff oder Boot, das leckgeschlagen ist und Wasser in den Rumpf eindringen lässt; im übertragenen Sinn auch für eine Situation oder Organisation, die zu scheitern droht oder in Not geraten ist.

A phrase describing a vessel (such as a boat or ship) that is leaking and allowing water to enter its hull, often used literally in maritime contexts or figuratively to indicate a situation or organization that is failing or in trouble.

1. Leak or floodB2formal

   To allow water to enter a vessel, such as a boat or ship, often due to damage.

   Wasser aufnehmen

   • The old boat began to take in water after hitting a rock.
   • The ship was taking in water through a crack in the hull.
   • They had to abandon the vessel because it was taking in water too fast.

2. Absorb liquidB1informal

   To absorb or soak up water, as a sponge or cloth does.

   Wasser aufsaugen

   • The sponge takes in water quickly.
   • The towel took in all the spilled water.
   • The plant's roots take in water from the soil.