open a can of worms
idiom
: to create a complicated situation in which doing something to correct a problem leads to many more problems
Our boss is reluctant to change the policy now because she doesn't want to open a can of worms.
Dictionary Entries Near open a can of worms
Cite this Entry
“Open a can of worms.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20a%20can%20of%20worms. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share