Idiom of the Day. "The elephant in the room"

 The elephant in the room

In today's exploration of English idioms, we delve into the widely used phrase "The elephant in the room." This expression refers to an obvious problem or issue that everyone is aware of but chooses not to discuss, creating a palpable sense of discomfort. Synonymous with an unspoken concern or a glaringly obvious matter, this idiom encourages acknowledging difficult topics rather than avoiding them.

For instance, imagine a team meeting where declining productivity is affecting morale, yet no one mentions the issue directly – that's the proverbial "elephant in the room". To navigate social nuances, it's essential to address these "elephants", fostering open communication and problem-solving. So, whether it's financial troubles, strained relationships, or workplace tension, recognizing the elephant in the room is the first step towards resolution and understanding in any situation.

Example in sentences:

During the family gathering, everyone avoided discussing Uncle John's recent job loss, but it was clearly the elephant in the room.

As the business meeting progressed, the team hesitated to mention the budget cuts, yet the financial strain was undeniably the elephant in the room.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere at the party, the unresolved conflict between two friends remained the elephant in the room, casting a subtle shadow over the event.

In the therapy session, Sarah finally decided to address the elephant in the room – her struggle with anxiety that had been affecting her work and personal life.

At the town hall meeting, the mayor skillfully acknowledged the community's concerns about rising crime rates, making a concerted effort to confront the elephant in the room and discuss potential solutions.

January, 2024

Posted by Oxford Language Club

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