English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Elephant in the room
Meaning
The idiom "elephant in the room" refers to a problem, issue, or situation that is obvious and conspicuous but is being ignored or avoided due to its awkwardness or difficulty. It is like an elephant in a small room that cannot be ignored, even though it is causing discomfort and taking up space.
Usage
- "We can't ignore the elephant in the room - our company is facing financial difficulties, and we need to address them head-on."
- "During the meeting, everyone was aware of the elephant in the room - the CEO's resignation was imminent, but no one dared to bring it up."
- "After the accident, the elephant in the room was the question of who was at fault and how we would compensate the victims."
- "The doctor pointed out the elephant in the room - my symptoms were unusual and could be a sign of a serious illness."
- "We tried to ignore the elephant in the room - our relationship had hit a rocky patch, but we didn't want to admit it."
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 1960s. One theory suggests that it comes from an advertising campaign for a furniture store that featured elephants as a way to showcase their large selection of sofas and chairs. Another theory is that it is related to the idea of an unwelcome guest or intruder who cannot be ignored.
Synonyms in English
- "Elephant in the room" can also be referred to as "the elephant in the room" or simply "the elephant."
- "Ghost in the machine" - refers to a problem or issue that is difficult to diagnose or fix due to its complex nature.
- "The big elephant in the room" - used to emphasize the significance of an issue or problem.
- "The elephant in the room" can also be replaced with other large animals, such as "the whale in the room" or "the giraffe in the room."
Synonyms in other languages
- French - "l'éléphant dans la pièce" (literal translation: "elephant in the room")
- German - "der Elefant im Raum" (literal translation: "elephant in the room")
- Spanish - "el elefante en la habitación" (literal translation: "elephant in the room")
- Italian - "l'elefante nella stanza" (literal translation: "elephant in the room")
- Japanese - "猪の傷風り" (literal translation: "pig wound") - refers to a person or situation that is difficult to confront due to its awkwardness or difficulty.