Trouble Idioms

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take a knock

Meaning: Suffer a setback or experience a decline in success, reputation or confidence.

Example: After the scandal, the politician's reputation took a knock in the media. Read more ➺


storm is brewing

Meaning: Indicates that trouble, conflict, or a difficult situation is about to arise.

Example: The dark clouds gathered, and we knew a storm is brewing before the big game. Read more ➺


behind the eight ball

Meaning: Indicates being in a difficult or disadvantageous situation, often due to unfavorable circumstances.

Example: After missing the deadline, she found herself behind the eight ball at work. Read more ➺


Pandora’s box

Meaning: An action or decision that leads to unforeseen and uncontrollable problems.

Example: Opening that old case file could be like opening Pandora's box, revealing more issues than we anticipate. Read more ➺


hornet’s nest

Meaning: A situation full of problems or difficulties, often causing disputes or controversy.

Example: The journalist's investigation stirred up a hornet's nest in the political arena. Read more ➺


safe and sound

Meaning: unharmed or uninjured.

Example: After the storm passed, we found our house still standing and our family safe and sound. Read more ➺


poke the bear

Meaning: to intentionally provoke or instigate a confrontation with someone who is known to be easily angered or irritated.

Example: Criticizing the boss's decisions is a sure way to poke the bear at work. Read more ➺


up a creek without a paddle

Meaning: being in trouble.

Example: With no savings, being fired will leave me up the creek without a paddle. Read more ➺


the rose that grew from concrete

Meaning: a person who achieved greatness even though they came from a place not so great.

Example: Ken performed well despite his poor background, much like the rose that grew from concrete. Read more ➺


on the line

Meaning: to be at serious risk.

Example: Put your toes on the line and form up! Read more ➺


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