open pandora’s box
Meaning
To do something that triggers many unexpected problems or complications that are hard to control.
Origin
From Greek mythology: Pandora opened a forbidden jar/box and released troubles into the world; the story became a metaphor for unleashing uncontrollable consequences.
Notes
Often used as a warning: an action may unleash a chain of messy, hard-to-manage consequences. Neutral to negative tone; common in speech and writing.
Examples
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If we start questioning the old agreement, we could open Pandora’s box and trigger a long legal battle.
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Publishing those private emails might open Pandora’s box of workplace conflict.
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Asking about his past seemed harmless, but it opened Pandora’s box of painful memories.
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Changing the tax code now could open Pandora’s box of unintended consequences.
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Once the committee allowed exceptions, it opened Pandora’s box and everyone demanded special treatment.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used as: “open Pandora’s box” (or “open a Pandora’s box”). Can be inflected: opened/opening. Often followed by of + noun: “opened Pandora’s box of complaints.”
Synonyms
- unleash a can of worms
- open a can of worms
- stir up trouble
Antonyms
- keep a lid on it
- leave well enough alone