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Definition

A thing or situation which is almost certain to eventually lead to an accident.

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Origins

Attested 1930s.

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In Context

  • "Someone needs to repair that worn-out old bridge. It's an accident waiting to happen!"
  • "Maguire looked totally devoid of confidence, a lost soul and an accident waiting to happen, which it eventually did."
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Related Idioms

s

sow the seeds of

To carry out a certain action which will eventually bring about a part …

m

make happen

To realize, to cause or bring about a thing.

g

game out

To run through scenarios to determine what will happen given certain d …

i

in the wrong place at the wrong time

At a location or in a situation by where something bad is about to hap …

w

wait for the dust to settle

To let a situation calm down, become clear or certain, before taking a …

i

in the bag

Of a desirable thing, certain or extremely likely to occur.

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