tinderbox

• Существительное с двумя различными значениями: может обозначать коробку для трута, или, в переносном смысле, взрывоопасную или опасную ситуацию, которая является потенциальным источником конфликта или насилия.

A noun with two distinct meanings: it can refer to a box used for holding tinder, or metaphorically to a volatile or dangerous situation that is a potential source of conflict or violence.

1. Dangerous situationC1formal

   A volatile or explosive state of affairs that could easily lead to conflict or violence.

   Взрывоопасная ситуация

   • The political tension in the region is a tinderbox waiting to ignite.
   • The city's economic inequality created a social tinderbox.
   • The border dispute turned the area into a tinderbox.

   Синонимыflashpointhotbedminefieldpowder kegtime bomb

2. Container for tinderC2formal

   A small box or container used to hold tinder, a material used to start fires.

   Коробка для трута

   • He carried a tinderbox in his backpack for camping.
   • The antique tinderbox was made of brass and leather.
   • She used the tinderbox to keep the dry moss safe for starting fires.