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A complex unexpected problem or unsolvable dilemma, as in Tackling the budget cuts is sure to open a can of worms. This expression alludes to a container of bait used for fishing, which when opened reveals an inextricable tangle of worms. [1920s]

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Opened up a whole new can of worms?

A whole new can of worms from my dictionary means: A very complicated situation that causes a lot of problems when you start to deal with it: For example, I just don't know what to do - every solution I can think of would just open up a whole new can of worms; and given the example, the idiom phrase normally goes along with the phrasal verb "to open up".


What is the meaning of can of worms in idiomatic expression?

to open up a can of worms means to bring even more problems to be dealt with than there were before. The can of worms is a new set of issues.


Where did the expression open a can of worms come from?

A "can of worms" is an issue with a number of complex aspects or opinions.To "open a can of worms" means to encounter a topic that might be more than you wanted to get into. An example would be to ask someone how their day was, without knowing that the person had been assaulted and arrested earlier that day. Your innocent question might be leading to opening a can of worms rather than just producing the social niceties that you expected."To open a can of worms" usually means to bring a new set of distracting complications and difficulties to a discussion or a problem. As a "can of worms" is a wriggly mass of confusion, a topic may have many detailed and involved aspects, whether you realize them or not.Avoiding the can may also be avoiding a problem that is better left alone, like the metaphor of Pandora's box, or the admonition to "let sleeping dogs lie."Examples:"The subject of appropriate bonuses turned out to be another can of worms.""I would ask him if his car was fixed yet, but I don't want to open that can of worms."It means by trying to solve one problem you will unintentionally create many more problems in doing so


Who can you keep your computer from getting virus and worms?

The answer is you. Be diligent. Do not open unrecognized mail. Have an up to date anti virus program. Be wary of game and porn websites.


Is it ok for the puppy to throw up the worms?

No. If your dog is throwing up worms, then you need to take it to a vet ASAP.


Are horse worms different from dog worms?

Yes. Though the parasitic worms of horses are similar to the worms of dogs, they are not the the same. This means that horses won't pick up worms from dogs and vice versa.


If you have worms in your poop could you die?

nope look up "pin worms"on google


Do worms have nucleus?

yes, worms are made up of cells and all cells have a nucleus.


How are worms and snails different?

Well snails have shells and worms dont. worms dig undergroung and snails just climb up things for safety.


What part of speech is the word worms?

"Worms" can be used as a noun or a verb. As a noun: We'll pick up worms on the way to the fishing hole. As a verb: He constantly worms his way back into her heart.


Do sparrows eat worms?

coped up worms and tiny insects


What is up with worms?

that's not a real question