What does “Hot potato” mean?
"Hot potato" means a controversial or sensitive issue that is difficult to handle or deal with.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The topic of politics can be a hot potato during family gatherings.
Example
The company's financial situation is a hot potato that no one wants to address.
Example
The decision to close the school was a hot potato for the school board
Is “Hot potato” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Hot potato” 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 “Hot potato” effectively in context?
You can use "Hot Potato" to describe a controversial or sensitive issue that is difficult to handle or deal with. It emphasizes the idea that the topic is uncomfortable or challenging to address. For example, if a friend brings up a divisive political topic during a family gathering, you might say, 'Politics can be a hot potato during family gatherings.'
- 1Family Gatherings
The topic of politics can be a hot potato during family gatherings.
- 2Business
The company's financial situation is a hot potato that no one wants to address.
- 3Decision Making
The decision to close the school was a hot potato for the school board.
Similar phrases to “Hot potato”:
Pandora's box
A situation or problem that, once opened or addressed, leads to many other unforeseen problems
Example
The investigation into corruption opened Pandora's box, revealing widespread fraud.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Hot potato” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Hot Potato" is unknown.
Is “Hot potato” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Hot Potato" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe controversial or sensitive topics that are difficult to handle or discuss.
What tone does “Hot potato” have?
"Hot Potato" conveys a tone of discomfort or unease. It suggests that the topic being discussed is challenging or problematic.
Can “Hot potato” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Hot Potato" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes difficult or sensitive issues. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or presentations.
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 topic of politics can be a hot potato during family gatherings.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Politics can be a "hot potato"!' to imply the sensitivity of the topic.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- controversial issue
- sensitive topic
- difficult matter
- thorny problem
- delicate subject
Antonyms
- easy topic
- non-controversial issue
- straightforward matter
- simple subject
- uncomplicated problem
