"A pandora's box" is an idiomatic expression that refers to something that appears innocent or harmless but ultimately unleashes a multitude of unforeseen and often negative consequences. It signifies a source of great and unexpected troubles or problems.
The expression originates from the Greek myth of Pandora, who opened a jar (often depicted as a box) containing all the evils of humanity. While she managed to close the jar before Hope could escape, the world was then filled with suffering.
The register is generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
"A pandora's box" can be used quite flexibly. It can be preceded by articles ("a," "the"), possessive pronouns ("his," "her"), or demonstrative pronouns ("this," "that"). It can be modified by adjectives (e.g., "a dangerous Pandora's box") or followed by prepositional phrases (e.g., "a Pandora's box of legal issues"). The verb used with it is commonly "open" (or "reopen"), but can also be "be," "become," or "resemble."
It sounds unnatural to use it in a literal sense; it's almost always used figuratively. Overly complex modifications or attempts to force it into contexts where simpler language would suffice can also sound awkward.
These examples are sourced from a pandora's box on Ludwig.guru.
""I'm a naturally guarded person anyway, and that's a Pandora's Box if you were to divulge." — Independent
"It's a Pandora's box." — Los Angeles Times
"This opens a Pandora's box." — The New York Times
""They've opened a Pandora's box." — The New York Times
"In many ways, technology has opened a Pandora's box." — The New York Times
Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/a+pandora's+box
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| can of worms | Similar to Pandora's Box, implying a complex and unpleasant situation. |
| slippery slope | Suggests that one action will inevitably lead to a series of negative consequences. |
| hornets' nest | Describes a situation that, if disturbed, will cause a lot of trouble and anger. |
| Pandora's box | Can be used to highlight the original myth, emphasizing the unexpected release of many problems. |
| minefield | Signifies a situation full of hidden dangers and potential problems. |
| Pandora's box | Use to highlight the original myth, emphasizing the unexpected release of many problems. |
| Pandora's box | Use to highlight the original myth, emphasizing the unexpected release of many problems. |
| Expression | Idiomatic Meaning | Register | Avoid In |
|---|---|---|---|
| a pandora's box | A source of many unforeseen troubles or problems. | Neutral | Literal contexts. |
"A pandora's box" is almost always used figuratively. It refers to a situation or process that seems harmless but unleashes many unforeseen and negative consequences, rather than an actual box.
Both "a pandora's box" and "a can of worms" describe problematic situations, but "a pandora's box" emphasizes the unexpected release of numerous issues, whereas "a can of worms" highlights the complexity and unpleasantness of the situation itself.
A common mistake is assuming that "a pandora's box" refers to something positive or simply mysterious. Instead, remember that it carries a negative connotation, signifying a source of unforeseen and often severe problems and troubles.
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