English Reference
Idiom idiom

loose cannon


An uncontrolled or unpredictable person, especially considered liable to cause unintentional or indiscriminate damage.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

Don't trust him with the project; he is a loose cannon.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager warned the team about the new hire, describing him as a loose cannon who often ignores safety rules.

COMPLEX

Despite his undeniable talent, the director was considered a loose cannon whose unpredictable outbursts frequently disrupted the production schedule and alienated his colleagues.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all bedlam breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  2. 02

    all hell breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  3. 03

    cast loose

    To unfasten, loosen, or set free.

  4. 04

    cut loose

    To loosen or set free someone or something.

  5. 05

    cut one loose

    To flatulate; to fart.

  6. 06

    cut someone loose

    To let someone go from something, such as a position, relationship, or obligation.

  7. 07

    kick loose

    to give someone the freedom to do what they want

  8. 08

    let loose

    To free; to release from restraint.

Last updated August 10, 2026