Schrodinger's cat

Schrödinger's cat is a thought experiment from quantum physics in which a cat in a sealed box exists in a superposition of states—simultaneously alive and dead—until observed.

The phrase has escaped the laboratory to describe any situation where something remains in an unresolved or paradoxical state until examined: Until I check my bank account, it's Schrödinger's cat—I both can and can't afford dinner.

Often used humorously to describe willful ignorance or suspended uncertainty.