# loose cannon

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/loose-cannon
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- Don't trust him with the project; he is a loose cannon.
- The manager warned the team about the new hire, describing him as a loose cannon who often ignores safety rules.
- Despite his undeniable talent, the director was considered a loose cannon whose unpredictable outbursts frequently disrupted the production schedule and alienated his colleagues.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.