Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
a can of worms
idiom
/ə kæn əv wɜrmz/
Definition
A complicated or difficult situation that is likely to cause more problems if further examined or dealt with.
Examples
- When they started discussing the budget cuts, they opened a can of worms that no one was prepared for.
- Dealing with his personal issues turned out to be a can of worms, revealing deeper problems in his life.
Meaning
The phrase ‘a can of worms’ refers to a situation that involves many issues or complications, which could lead to unexpected problems when addressed.
Synonyms
- Pandora’s box
- Bringing up the past
- A complicated situation
