Pandora's box Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A source of many troubles or problems, especially when something starts small but leads to more and more difficulties. Comes from a Greek myth where opening Pandora's box released all the world's evils.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in writing and formal speech, and often appears in news or essays. Refers to actions or decisions that cause unexpected and uncontrollable problems. Not used for actual physical boxes. Common collocation: 'open a Pandora's box'.
Example Sentences
If you tell them the secret, you might open a Pandora's box.
basic
The new law turned out to be a Pandora's box of issues.
basic
They opened a Pandora's box when they started that project.
basic
Social media has become a real Pandora's box for privacy concerns.
natural
Just mentioning his name was like opening a Pandora's box—everyone started arguing.
natural
I didn’t realize asking that question would create a Pandora's box of complaints.
natural