rút dây động rừng
Definition
- Idiom (Proverb):
- To pull a string and shake the forest: The primary meaning describes a small, seemingly insignificant action that triggers a large, widespread, and often unexpected reaction or consequence. It implies that everything is interconnected, and disturbing one part can affect the whole system.
- To set off a chain reaction: It conveys the idea of initiating a series of connected events, often negative or troublesome, from a single minor cause.
Usage Examples
- Idiom:
- Việc điều tra một vụ tham nhũng nhỏ có thể rút dây động rừng, làm lộ ra cả một đường dây lớn. (Investigating a small corruption case can pull a string and shake the forest, exposing a whole large network.)
- Đừng đụng vào vấn đề đó, rút dây động rừng đấy. (Don't touch that issue; you'll set off a chain reaction.)
Advanced Usage
- This idiom is often used in contexts of politics, bureaucracy, crime, or complex social networks to warn against actions that might reveal deeper, hidden problems or provoke a significant backlash.
- It carries a cautionary tone, suggesting that one should be aware of the potential ripple effects of their actions.
Variants and Related Words
- Động bụi rậm (v): Literally "to disturb the thicket," meaning to stir up trouble or provoke a hidden danger.
Synonyms
- To open a can of worms: To create a situation that causes many unforeseen problems.
- To start a chain reaction: To cause a series of related events.
- The domino effect: A cumulative effect produced when one event sets off a chain of similar events.
Related Idioms
- Sợi dây đàn căng: Literally "a taut string," meaning a tense or volatile situation that could easily be disturbed.
- Chạm vào tổ kiến lửa: Literally "to touch a fire ant nest," meaning to provoke a fierce and swarming reaction.