hot potato
When a tire or anything needed to move matter requires traction.
Political and controversial.
Most people believed that President Jefferson didn't have the right to make such a purchase, and thus was a largely controversial matter (but aren't we glad he made it :) ).
The Manhattan project was controversial because the result was the production of very dangerous nuclear bombs.
celluose
The cast of An Awkward Situation - 2013 includes: Alana Grelyak
Her mom walking into the room made it an awkward situation.
An Awkward Situation - 2011 was released on: USA: 17 September 2011 (Burbank International Film Festival)
Anatomy of a Socially Awkward Situation - 2008 was released on: USA: 1 August 2008 (internet)
awkward
simply smiling and admitting that the situation is akward is a definite way to break the ice Not having anything to say can be what makes something awkward
During an awkward moment, this hand gesture is used to mark the situation as awkward, and, depending on the situation, makes it more awkward or clears the air. The awkward turtle is made by putting one hand on top of the other with the thumbs sticking outward and rotating forward. The speed of the rotating thumbs depends on the degree of awkwardness. Like when there is an awkward silence in the area, and then you do the awkward turtle. Results may vary.
I just laugh it off and change the subject. Awkward situations happen to all of us.
awkward/humiliating predicament
I don't know about supposed to be as much as you might mean it can be. If it's a new girlfriend or if there was a recent situation that makes things awkward, then it can be awkward.
"Awkward" in Tagalog is translated as "nakakailang" or "nakakahiya." It refers to feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed in a social situation.
The opposite of awkward (in manner) could be graceful, poised, adroit, smooth, elegant, or artful. The opposite of awkward (unskilled) could be proficient, skillful, deft, or dexterous. The opposite of awkward (situation) would be comfortable, easy, or pleasant.