sitting on a powder keg

Idioms  

1. In imminent danger, in an explosive situation, as in Our office is sitting on a powder keg while management decides whether or not to close us down. This metaphoric term alludes to sitting on a keg of gunpowder that could go off at any moment. [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

"It's like we're sitting on a powder keg."

From BBC • Sep. 30, 2022

"Of course, we are worried. ... It's like sitting on a powder keg," said Enerhodar resident Alexander Lifirenko.

From Reuters • Aug. 22, 2022

When you interviewed him before prison, you know, you would have no idea that he was sitting on a powder keg of lies.

From Fox News • Apr. 14, 2021

“We have been sitting on a powder keg for some time and it has burst,” said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, whose officers have made hundreds of arrests.

From Washington Times • Jun. 2, 2020

Without knowing, we are sitting on a powder keg in which the fuse may or may not be lighted.

From Cubs of the Wolf by Jones, Raymond F.