Idiom
loose cannon
Meanings
A person whose unpredictable behavior can cause problems or danger for others.
Definition
A loose cannon is a person who behaves unpredictably and may cause trouble or harm.
A loose cannon is someone who is hard to control and acts without thinking about the consequences. This person can create problems for a group because others cannot predict what they will do next. The expression is often used in workplaces, teams, or politics to warn that someone might damage plans or reputations.
Examples
- Everyone avoided giving him sensitive tasks because he was a loose cannon.
- The coach benched her after she proved to be a loose cannon during interviews.
- In negotiations, a loose cannon can ruin months of careful planning.
- They like his energy, but they fear he’s a loose cannon under pressure.
More at C1 level
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More nouns
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- fifth wheel A fifth wheel is a person who feels unnecessary or left out in a group, especially with couples.
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- no-brainer A no-brainer is an obvious choice or decision that requires little or no thought.
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