HOT POTATO Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "hot potato" refers to a situation, issue, or topic that is highly controversial, volatile, or difficult to handle. It is often utilized metaphorically to describe an uncomfortable or problematic matter that is eagerly passed from one person to another, as if it were a scalding potato being quickly transferred between individuals due to its unbearable heat.
This expression implies that the item or concern in question is something that people are reluctant to hold onto or take responsibility for because it is widely feared or potentially damaging. The idea is to avoid being caught or associated with the contentious matter, just as one would swiftly toss a hot potato to avoid getting burned.
In various contexts such as politics, business, or personal relationships, a hot potato can encompass controversial or thorny issues that elicit strong emotions, create disagreement, or carry significant risk. It suggests that the matter is challenging to address or resolve and may cause negative consequences for those involved.
Furthermore, the notion of a hot potato often emphasizes the urgency to act quickly or pass the matter on to someone else before it becomes too difficult or problematic. This phrase vividly encapsulates the desire to avoid being associated with controversial or contentious situations, as individuals are inclined to distance themselves from such potentially harmful matters.
Common Misspellings for HOT POTATO
- got potato
- bot potato
- not potato
- jot potato
- uot potato
- yot potato
- hit potato
- hkt potato
- hlt potato
- hpt potato
- h0t potato
- h9t potato
- hor potato
- hof potato
- hog potato
- hoy potato
- ho6 potato
- ho5 potato
- hot ootato
Etymology of HOT POTATO
The phrase "hot potato" originated in England in the early 1800s. The word "hot" implies something that is burning or scorching, while a "potato" refers to the edible tuber. When combined, the phrase "hot potato" suggests a situation or topic that is sensitive, controversial, or difficult to handle, similar to a hot object that one would want to quickly pass on to someone else to avoid being burned. The expression gained popularity due to its metaphorical representation of a problematic or tricky situation.
Idioms with the word HOT POTATO
-
a hot potato
The idiom "a hot potato" refers to a contentious or sensitive issue or topic that is difficult to handle, tackle, or manage, usually due to its controversial nature or potential for causing problems or conflicts. It suggests something that is challenging, potentially harmful, or uncomfortable to deal with and is often avoided or quickly passed on to someone else.
-
drop sb/sth like a hot potato
The idiom "drop sb/sth like a hot potato" means to quickly and completely disassociate oneself from someone or something, often due to fear, embarrassment, or a desire to avoid trouble or responsibility. It implies that the person or thing is abandoned or rejected hastily and without hesitation, similar to dropping a hot potato that burns one's hands.
-
drop sm or sth like a hot potato
The idiom "drop something/someone like a hot potato" means to quickly and immediately disassociate oneself from a person, idea, or object due to its sudden negative or undesirable quality or consequences. It implies a hasty rejection or abandonment of something once it becomes burdensome or problematic.
-
drop like a hot potato
The idiom "drop like a hot potato" means to quickly and immediately get rid of or abandon someone or something, usually due to it becoming undesirable, difficult to deal with, or potentially causing trouble or harm. It implies that the subject is discarded abruptly and without hesitation, much like one would drop a hot potato to avoid being burned.
-
drop (someone or something) like a hot potato
The idiom "drop (someone or something) like a hot potato" means to quickly and completely get rid of someone or something because they are considered undesirable, problematic, or not wanted. It implies a sudden and immediate abandonment or rejection, similar to dropping a hot potato because it is too hot to hold.
-
drop something like a hot potato
The idiom "drop something like a hot potato" means to quickly and eagerly get rid of something or someone, usually because it is uncomfortable, burdensome, or risky to keep them. It implies an immediate and abrupt abandonment of an issue, task, responsibility, or association, similar to dropping a hot potato to avoid being burned.
-
drop someone/something like a hot potato
The idiom "drop someone/something like a hot potato" means to quickly and eagerly abandon or distance oneself from someone or something, usually due to it becoming problematic, controversial, or unwanted. It implies a sudden and complete detachment from a previously associated person, idea, or situation.
-
hot potato
A controversial or sensitive issue that is difficult to deal with and often passed quickly from person to person.
Similar spelling words for HOT POTATO
