Hot potato Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A hot potato is a difficult or controversial issue that people do not want to deal with or handle because it is risky or uncomfortable.
Usage & Nuances
Used informally in both speech and writing, usually about sensitive topics in politics, work, or group conversations. Common patterns: 'pass the hot potato', 'it became a hot potato'. Not used for actual food; entirely idiomatic.
Example Sentences
The new tax law is a hot potato for the government.
basic
No one wants to talk about the hot potato in the office.
basic
That question was a real hot potato during the meeting.
basic
As soon as the scandal broke, it turned into a hot potato nobody wanted to touch.
natural
He handed the hot potato over to his colleague and walked away.
natural
"Climate change is a hot potato topic in many countries," she said.
natural