noun
imbroglio
im-BROH-lee-oh/ɪmˈbrəʊliəʊ/
A complicated and confusing situation.
The duplicate seat assignments create an imbroglio for the patrons and flustered usher.
Etymology
The Italian pieces suggest throwing things into disorder. What was first a jumble became an intricate entanglement of people or affairs—the confusing, complicated situation now called an imbroglio.
More examples
- Conflicting claims to the property created a legal imbroglio.
- The mayor struggles to explain his role in the budget imbroglio.
- Clear agreements help families avoid financial imbroglios.
Forms
imbroglio · imbroglios
Similar words
- muddle
- Emphasizes confusion or disorder rather than intricate complications.
- predicament
- Emphasizes difficulty finding a solution, not necessarily confusion.
- entanglement
- Emphasizes complicated involvement in relationships, obligations, or disputes.