kettle of fish

NOUN

difficult situation

Synonyms

WEAK

another can of worms another tune bird of another feather different breed of cat horse of a different color piece of business

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"America was a different kettle of fish – the opportunity was the biggest thing for us," Allen said.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

“It’s one thing to go to Channel One or Spengler,” he said, “but it’s a whole other kettle of fish when you may have a chance to go to the Olympics.”

From New York Times • Feb. 9, 2022

There is definitely plenty of talent in the Romanian squad but being able to beat Germany is another kettle of fish.

From The Guardian • Mar. 28, 2021

Live testimony is a different kettle of fish, however.

From Salon • Jul. 23, 2019

"See, what did I tell you, a kettle of fish."

From "The Westing Game" by Ellen Raskin