stewing in one's own juices
Suffering without relief
To stew in one's own juices is to suffer the consequences of one's own actions or emotions without relief or outside help.
The image is of meat cooking slowly in its own liquid—you're left to simmer in your anger, guilt, or frustration: I tried to apologize but she wanted to keep stewing in her own juices.
Often used when someone refuses comfort or won't let go of a grievance.
- repercussionsIndirect results of actions
- regretSorrow over past actions
- marinatingSoaking food in flavored liquid
- simmeringCooking below boiling point
- slow burnGradual buildup of rage
introspection · self-criticism · rumination · guilt · festering · anguish · soul-searching · inner turmoil · braising · frustration · eating away at · remorse · wallowing · pity party · overthinking · going in circles · contemplation · accountability
stewing in one's own juicesat peace
In a calm state
calm · serene · letting go · moving on · water off a duck's back
stewing in one's own juicestaking action
Initiating purposeful effort
taking the bull by the horns · rolling up one's sleeves · taking matters into one's own hands
stewed, stewing, owners, juices, juicier, juiciest, juiciness