A mare’s nest

usgb
noun

A very complicated or confused situation.

His financial affairs were a mare’s nest of debt and unpaid bills.
Visual representation of "a mare’s nest" - A very complicated or confused situation

Often appears as...

  • tangle into a mare’s nest
  • create a mare’s nest
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "a mare’s nest"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Confusion Overload

Use 'a mare’s nest' for situations that are extremely confused or disorganized.

Illustration for Confusion Overload
The case file was a mare’s nest, with missing statements and jumbled evidence.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not for Formal Use

'A mare’s nest' is not commonly used in formal contexts. Use it in informal discussions or creative writing.

Illustration for Not for Formal Use
When I took over the project, it was a mare’s nest; took me weeks to sort out.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Archaic Awareness

Be aware that 'a mare’s nest' is an old-fashioned term, familiar to older English speakers or readers of historical texts.

Illustration for Archaic Awareness
Grandpa described his attic as a mare’s nest of antiques and memorabilia.
Visual representation of the word "A mare’s nest"

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