Meaning of the word "muddy the waters" in English

What does "muddy the waters" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

muddy the waters

US /ˈmʌd.i ðə ˈwɔː.tərz/
UK /ˈmʌd.i ðə ˈwɔː.təz/
"muddy the waters" picture

Idiom

to make a situation or issue more confusing or difficult to understand

Example:
His conflicting statements only served to muddy the waters further.
Let's not muddy the waters with irrelevant details.