The elephant in the room

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phrase

A significant problem or difficult issue that everyone is aware of, but no one wants to talk about.

He tried to ignore the elephant in the room and carried on the meeting as if his boss had not just resigned.
Visual representation of "the elephant in the room" - A significant problem or difficult issue that everyone is aware of, but no one wants to talk about.

Often appears as...

  • address the elephant in the room
  • ignore the elephant in the room

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the elephant in the room"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Weight

Using this phrase can indicate a serious, uncomfortable issue that affects everyone's feelings in the situation.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
During the family dinner, the elephant in the room was Uncle Joe's recent job loss.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Conversation Starter

Bring up the elephant in the room to openly discuss something that people may be avoiding.

Illustration for Conversation Starter
Let's address the elephant in the room: we need to talk about the budget cuts.
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Cultural Sensitivity

Some cultures may find talking about the 'elephant in the room' more challenging due to norms around politeness or confrontation.

Illustration for Cultural Sensitivity
He was hesitant to mention the elephant in the room during the international meeting.
Visual representation of the word "The elephant in the room"

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