What does “Loose cannon” mean?
The phrase "loose cannon" means 'someone dangerously uncontrollable.' When someone is described as a "loose cannon", it implies that they are unpredictable and can cause harm or chaos due to their reckless behavior or lack of restraint. This term is often used to refer to individuals who act impulsively and without considering the consequences of their actions.
How is the expression used in real life?
Learn when and how to use these expressions with these examples!
Example
You never know what he will do next, he's a loose cannon.
You never know what he will do next, he's a loose cannon.
Example
The politician's unpredictable behavior earned him the reputation of a loose cannon.
The politician's unpredictable behavior earned him the reputation of a loose cannon.
Example
The team had to deal with a loose cannon player who often caused trouble.
The team had to deal with a loose cannon player who often caused trouble.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing someone's unpredictable behavior
You never know what he will do next, he's a loose cannon.
You never know what he will do next, he's a loose cannon.
The politician's unpredictable behavior earned him the reputation of a loose cannon.
The politician's unpredictable behavior earned him the reputation of a loose cannon.
- 2Referring to a troublesome or disruptive individual
The team had to deal with a loose cannon player who often caused trouble.
The team had to deal with a loose cannon player who often caused trouble.
Her reckless actions made her a loose cannon in the workplace.
Her reckless actions made her a loose cannon in the workplace.
- 3Highlighting the potential danger or risk associated with someone's behavior
His impulsive decisions make him a loose cannon in business negotiations.
His impulsive decisions make him a loose cannon in business negotiations.
The company decided to fire the employee who was considered a loose cannon due to his erratic behavior.
The company decided to fire the employee who was considered a loose cannon due to his erratic behavior.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "loose cannon" originated from naval warfare. It refers to a cannon that has come loose from its moorings and is rolling unpredictably on the deck of a ship, posing a danger to the crew. It has since been adopted as a metaphor to describe individuals who are unpredictable and pose a risk to others.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "loose cannon" is typically used within a sentence to describe someone's behavior. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "loose cannon" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to describe someone who is dangerously uncontrollable.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "loose cannon" is commonly used by English speakers, particularly in the United States. It is understood by a wide range of audiences, but it may be more commonly used in informal or casual settings.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "loose cannon" is primarily used in the United States, although it may also be understood in other English-speaking regions. Its usage and popularity may vary in different parts of the world.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- uncontrollable person
- reckless individual
- unpredictable individual
- wild card
- loose cannonball
Antonyms
- controlled person
- disciplined individual
- predictable individual
- reliable player
- stable element
