What does it mean when someone opens a can of worms?

What does it mean when someone opens a can of worms?

Definition of open a can of worms : to create a complicated situation in which doing something to correct a problem leads to many more problems Our boss is reluctant to change the policy now because she doesn’t want to open a can of worms.

Where does the phrase open up a can of worms come from?

The origin of this phrase may come from fishing. The reason is because people often buy and open cans of worms to use as bait during this activity. Indeed, bait is a big part of fishing; it helps to lure the fish in. Besides worms, there are other types of bait that are used.

Can of worms opened?

If you say that someone is opening a can of worms, you are warning them that they are planning to do or talk about something that is much more complicated, unpleasant, or difficult than they realize and that might be better left alone. Introducing this legislation would be like opening a can of worms.

Is open a can of worms an idiom?

Open a can of worms (idiom) (open / open up) a can of worms: a situation or issue that becomes even more complicated as you try to deal with it or solve the problem. Fishermen often attach a live worm to their fishing hooks as bait to catch a fish.

Can of Worms idiom sentence?

The family has many can of worms so it is best to not ask them any personal questions. The death of the rich man opened a can of worms which was difficult for the police to sort out. The doctor had to go through a can of worms to figure out a diagnosis for his problem because he had many complications.

Can of Worms vs Pandora’s box?

What’s the difference between Pandora’s box and a can of worms? In Greek myth, the contents of the fateful box belonging to Pandora (literally, “all gifts” in ancient Greek) were a mystery. With a can of worms, on the other hand, you know the kind of tangled, unpleasant mess you’re in for. It’s worms.

Can of worms sentence?

Example Sentences The can of worms was wide open when he asked her about her past. I am not opening a can of worms by answering that question. To get into that discussion would mean to open a can of worms. The family has many can of worms so it is best to not ask them any personal questions.

Can of worms synonyms?

synonyms for can of worms

• Gordian knot.
• complex problem.
• complexity.
• complication.
• difficult situation.
• difficulty.
• dog’s breakfast.
• entanglement.

What does before you know it mean?

From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishbefore you know itbefore you know itused to say that something happens very quickly and when you are not expecting it You’ll be home before you know it.

Can of worms examples?

The doctor had to go through a can of worms to figure out a diagnosis for his problem because he had many complications. To sell that house would mean that I would have to speak with my brother and I am not about to open that can of worms. Maurice opened a can of worms when she spoke more about her career choices.

Can of worms similar phrases?

can of worms

• Gordian knot.
• complex problem.
• complexity.
• complication.
• difficult situation.
• difficulty.
• dog’s breakfast.
• entanglement.

Does green around the gills mean?

Also, green around the gills. Looking ill or nauseated, as in After that bumpy ride she looked quite green about the gills. The use of green to describe an ailing person’s complexion dates from about 1300, and gills has referred to the flesh around human jaws and ears since the 1600s.