student asking question

What does the phrase "Pandora's box" mean? Is it a metaphor?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Yes, that’s correct! It refers to a thing or event that can cause complicated, unwanted problems. It comes from an ancient Greek myth that stated a woman named Pandora was given a box but warned not to open it. She didn’t listen to the advice and opened it, causing misery for many people as a result. Ex: Don’t get into a fight with your manager. It will open up a Pandora’s box for the whole company. Ex: Once the family secret was revealed, it was like a Pandora’s box had been opened.

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