land mine

• Engin explosif placé sur le sol ou juste sous sa surface, conçu pour exploser lorsqu'on appuie dessus ou qu'on s'en approche. S'emploie aussi au sens figuré pour désigner un problème caché ou inattendu susceptible de causer de graves ennuis.

An explosive device placed on or just below the ground, designed to detonate when triggered by pressure or proximity. Also used figuratively to describe a hidden or unexpected problem that can cause serious trouble.

1. B2formal

   An explosive device placed on or just below the ground, designed to detonate when triggered by pressure or proximity.

   mine terrestre

   • The soldiers carefully cleared the field of land mines.
   • Land mines remain a serious threat in post-conflict zones.
   • Many civilians have been injured by undetected land mines.

2. Hidden danger or problemB2informal

   A situation or issue that is likely to cause unexpected trouble or difficulty.

   piège caché

   • The contract was full of legal land mines.
   • Negotiating with him is tricky; every question is a potential land mine.
   • Be careful with that topic—it's a political land mine.