A can of worms
Meaning
A situation or issue that, if addressed, is likely to create many new, complicated, and unpleasant problems.
Origin
Imagine a fisherman, content with his day, carrying a simple can of worms for bait. But one slip, one careless tilt, and suddenly, the lid flies open. Instead of an organized, contained supply, dozens of slimy, wriggling worms spill out, scattering in every direction, a chaotic, squirming mess impossible to quickly gather back. This vivid, messy image, born from the simple act of fishing, perfectly captures a situation where addressing one seemingly small problem inadvertently unleashes a cascade of much larger, more complex, and unmanageable issues, turning a minor bother into an overwhelming ordeal.
Examples
- Opening up negotiations on that contentious clause would be a can of worms, so we're better off leaving it alone for now.
- Hiring a private investigator to look into your family's history might open a can of worms you're not prepared for.