not looking for trouble

We use this informal expression to mean behave in a way that is likely to provoke an argument or fight. It is frequently used humorously when misunderstandings occur:

For example:

• You suggest a change of venue for the annual conference but this is interpreted as disapproval or dislike.
  

However, by saying:

• No, I’m not looking for trouble! I was just thinking aloud about changing the venue as we’ve been going there for a number of years and the service isn’t as good as it was.

The expression softens the comment and indicates it was not aggressive or confrontational; merely a personal observation.

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