What does “Kick the can down the road” mean?
"Kick the can down the road" means to postpone a decision or action, especially repeatedly, in order to avoid dealing with a problem or making a difficult choice.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The government has been kicking the can down the road on addressing the budget deficit.
Example
We can't keep kicking the can down the road when it comes to climate change.
Example
It's time to stop kicking the can down the road and make a decision on this issue
Is “Kick the can down the road” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Kick the can down the road” 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 “Kick the can down the road” effectively in context?
You can use "Kick the Can Down the Road" to describe the act of postponing a decision or action, especially repeatedly, in order to avoid dealing with a problem or making a difficult choice. For example, if a company keeps delaying necessary changes to their business strategy, you might say, 'They're just kicking the can down the road instead of addressing the underlying issues.'
- 1Politics
The government has been kicking the can down the road on addressing the budget deficit.
- 2Environmental Issues
We can't keep kicking the can down the road when it comes to climate change.
- 3Decision Making
It's time to stop kicking the can down the road and make a decision on this issue.
Similar phrases to “Kick the can down the road”:
To delay or postpone tasks or decisions
Example
She tends to procrastinate and leave things until the last minute.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Kick the can down the road” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Kick the Can Down the Road" is unknown.
Is “Kick the can down the road” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Kick the Can Down the Road" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to criticize individuals or organizations for avoiding responsibility or delaying necessary actions.
What tone does “Kick the can down the road” have?
"Kick the Can Down the Road" conveys a tone of frustration or criticism. It implies that someone is avoiding facing a problem or making a difficult decision, which can have negative consequences in the long run.
Can “Kick the can down the road” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "kick the can down the road" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes a common behavior of avoiding responsibility or delaying actions. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions, presentations, or written reports.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The company needs to stop kicking the can down the road and address the issue.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They're just "kicking the can down the road" again!' to express frustration.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- delay action
- avoid responsibility
- postpone decision
- evade the issue
- shirk accountability
Antonyms
- face the problem
- take action
- make a decision
- confront the issue
- assume responsibility
