powder keg

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.

He has described the record as a "powder keg", as "burning diesel", and even a spicy "jambalaya" – and it's certainly harder and faster than anything the band have released over the past decade.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

This in exchange for quickly ignored sanctions, making Iran the powder keg that it was before Feb. 28.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

It was a powder keg waiting to blow.

From Barron's • Mar. 5, 2026

Dahlia Lithwick: I find the public-facing discourse around shootings to be impoverished, dangerous, and a powder keg on its own terms.

From Slate • Sep. 12, 2025

He had forgotten where he was—had worked problems on a powder keg.

From "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch" by Jean Lee Latham