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Open a can of worms

Definition

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“Open the can of worms” is an interesting idiom that refers to a situation or action that leads to a lot of problems or complications. When someone says they’ve “opened a can of worms,” it means they’ve started something that is now causing unexpected difficulties or creating a whole new set of issues. Imagine a can of worms, sealed tightly, with all the worms inside. If you were to open that can, the worms would spill out and create a messy and chaotic situation. In the same way, when someone “opens a can of worms” in a figurative sense, they introduce a topic or take an action that unravels a series of complications or problems.

It's like when you bring up a sensitive subject during a family gathering and it leads to arguments and hurt feelings. You didn’t expect all those issues to arise, but by mentioning that topic, you inadvertently “opened a can of worms.” This idiom is often used to caution against delving into a topic or taking an action that could potentially cause more trouble than it’s worth. It’s a way of saying, “Be careful, because this could lead to a lot of unexpected problems.”

Example sentences

I didn’t realize how complicated it would be when I opened the can of worms by asking about everyone’s opinions on politics.

Bringing up the topic of salary at work can often open a can of worms, as people have different expectations and perspectives.

When my friend asked about his ex-girlfriend, I warned him that he might be opening a can of worms and stirring up old emotions.

I thought I was just making a harmless comment, but it ended up opening a can of worms and sparking a heated debate.

Sharing my personal struggles with mental health opened a can of worms, as others began opening up about their own experiences.

Office culture

Workplace communication

Business idioms

Professional language

Corporate expressions

Linguistic expressions

w2u

way2unknown

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Jump through hoops

"Jumping through hoops" is an idiomatic expression describing the process of completing difficult or tedious tasks to achieve a goal. It originated from the image of performers leaping through hoops in a circus. Metaphorically, it signifies the exertion of significant effort to meet expectations or navigate bureaucratic hurdles. This expression conveys a sense of frustration at the burdensome obstacles individuals must overcome to accomplish their objectives.

Behind the eight ball

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Wild and free

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To be chalk and cheese

"To be chalk and cheese" is an idiomatic expression denoting stark differences between two entities, often emphasizing fundamental contrasts in characteristics or qualities. It draws from the disparate properties of chalk, typically white and used for writing, and cheese, known for its various textures and flavors. The phrase underscores not just differences but a profound divergence, making the comparison strikingly evident.

Open a can of worms

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