What does “Powder Keg” mean?

"Powder Keg" means a situation or place that is very tense or volatile, and could easily explode or become violent.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

The political climate in the country is a powder keg waiting to ignite.

Example

The rivalry between the two teams turned the stadium into a powder keg of emotions.

Example

The protest march was peaceful at first, but it quickly turned into a powder keg of anger and frustration

Is “Powder Keg” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Powder Keg” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Powder Keg” effectively in context?

You can use "Powder Keg" to describe a situation or place that is on the brink of erupting into violence or chaos. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this expression:

1Political Unrest
The political climate in the country is a powder keg waiting to ignite.
The political climate in the country is a powder keg waiting to ignite.
2Sports Rivalry
The rivalry between the two teams turned the stadium into a powder keg of emotions.
The rivalry between the two teams turned the stadium into a powder keg of emotions.
3Protest or Demonstration
The protest march was peaceful at first, but it quickly turned into a powder keg of anger and frustration.
The protest march was peaceful at first, but it quickly turned into a powder keg of anger and frustration.

Similar phrases to “Powder Keg”:

Ticking time bomb

A situation or person that is likely to become dangerous or explosive in the near future

Example

The unresolved conflict between the two countries is a ticking time bomb.

Volcano ready to erupt

A situation or person that is about to reach a breaking point and explode with anger or violence

Example

His temper was like a volcano ready to erupt.

Walking on thin ice

Being in a risky or dangerous situation where any misstep could have serious consequences

Example

He knew he was walking on thin ice with his boss after making that mistake.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Powder Keg” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Powder Keg" dates back to the 19th century. It refers to a keg or barrel filled with gunpowder, which is highly explosive. The phrase was used metaphorically to describe a situation or place that is very tense or volatile, and could easily explode or become violent.

Is “Powder Keg” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Powder Keg" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe situations that are highly volatile or on the verge of becoming violent.

What tone does “Powder Keg” have?

"Powder Keg" conveys a tone of tension and potential danger. It is used to highlight the explosive nature of a situation and the need for caution.

Can “Powder Keg” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Powder Keg" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that effectively conveys the idea of a highly volatile situation. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or written correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The situation is a powder keg waiting to explode.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'This place is a "powder keg"!' to imply a tense and potentially explosive atmosphere.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

tinderbox
time bomb
volatile situation
highly charged atmosphere
explosive situation

Antonyms

calm situation
peaceful environment
stable condition
harmonious atmosphere
tranquil setting