a hot potato

hot potato

A sensitive situation or controversial issue that is difficult to handle and thus gets passed from one person to the next (like a potato that is too hot to hold). The political candidate knew the issue was a hot potato, so he deferred to his chief of staff, who directed questions to the committee chairperson.
See also: hot, potato
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

a hot potato

COMMON If a subject or problem is a hot potato, it is very difficult to deal with, especially because it is something that people argue about a lot. When she is faced with a political hot potato such tightening the gun laws, she is not afraid to give her opinion. Pricing policy is another hot potato.
See also: hot, potato
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

a hot poˈtato

(informal) a very sensitive matter that is difficult or embarrassing to deal with: His resignation is a political hot potato.
See also: hot, potato
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • hot potato
  • kid gloves, to handle/treat with
  • spill one’s guts on someone
  • spill (one's) guts on (someone or something)
  • spill (one's) guts to (someone)
  • spill one’s guts to someone
  • spill your guts
  • spill (one's) guts
  • spill guts
  • spill one’s guts
References in periodicals archive
b) crack up and say, "I'll go after my big brother Brian--he's the one who sings along every time Clay Aiken's 'Invisible' comes on the radio." c) You drop the mic like a hot potato. Sing in front of all the relatives?
Are you up for a challenge? How go-for-it are you when it comes to trying new, exciting and challenging activities this summer? Take this quiz and find out!
Pop a hot potato cake on each plate, then a couple of rashers of crispy bacon and top with a poached egg.
Food: Quick fix - Potato cakes with bacon and egg Serves 2; This weekend, treat yourself (and some other lucky bod, if you like) to this brill brunch