Conflict & Trouble

Six idioms native speakers use when arguments grow, tensions rise, and situations become more difficult than expected.

Meaning

To make an already bad or tense situation even worse.

Example

"Bringing up old mistakes during the meeting only added fuel to the fire."

Conversation questions

Meaning

The final small problem that makes you lose patience after many other problems.

Example

"When the train was late again this morning, that was the last straw and she finally complained."

Conversation questions

What kind of behaviour is usually the last straw for you?
Do you speak up early when something bothers you, or only when it becomes the last straw?

Meaning

To make someone feel even worse about something painful or embarrassing.

Example

"Telling him how easy the exam was really rubbed salt in the wound after he had failed it."

Conversation questions

Meaning

To start dealing with a problem that turns out to be much more complicated than expected.

Example

"Once they started checking the old accounts, they opened a real can of worms."

Conversation questions

Have you ever opened a can of worms by asking what seemed like a simple question?
Is it better to avoid certain topics if they might open a can of worms?

Meaning

In trouble, especially because of something you have done wrong.

Example

"He landed in hot water after posting confidential information online."

Conversation questions

Meaning

Arguing angrily and aggressively with each other.

Example

"The two managers were at each other's throats over the budget cuts."

Conversation questions