Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

house-of-cards

Noun
/ˌhaʊs əv ˈkɑrdz/
Definition
A structure or system that is weak or unstable, and likely to collapse.
Examples
  • The company’s plans felt like a house of cards, ready to fall with any unexpected delay.
  • His argument was a house of cards, relying on shaky assumptions.
Meaning
The term ‘house of cards’ suggests something built on a fragile foundation, which can easily fall apart under pressure.
Synonyms
  • fragile structure
  • unstable system
  • precarious setup