Imbroglio
Noun
Definition: A confused or complicated situation; a predicament.
Synonyms: Entanglement, Complication, Mess
Antonyms: Resolution, Clarity, Simplicity
- The company found itself in an imbroglio after a series of bad financial decisions.
- The political scandal created an imbroglio for the government.
- "Imbroglio" sounds similar to "embroil," which means to involve someone deeply in an argument or conflict. Both words convey a sense of complexity and confusion.
Etymology:
Imbroglio comes from Italian, meaning "confusion" or "intricacy." It entered the English language in the mid-18th century.
Historical Usage:The word has been used in English literature and discourse to describe complex or perplexing situations.
Related Idioms:
"Embarrassing imbroglio"
Explanation:This phrase emphasizes the embarrassing aspect of the complicated situation. It suggests that the imbroglio not only poses challenges but also causes embarrassment or awkwardness.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "imbroglio" with "ambrosia."
Explanation:"Imbroglio" refers to a complicated situation, while "ambrosia" refers to a mythical food of the gods or a dessert made with oranges and coconut. The two words have different meanings and origins.