poisoned chalices
Deadly disguised offerings
A poisoned chalice is something that seems desirable but brings harm to whoever receives it—a gift, opportunity, or honor that proves ruinous.
The image is of a ceremonial cup containing hidden poison: The CEO position turned out to be a poisoned chalice, with the company already failing.
Often used for prestigious roles that come with impossible problems attached.
- cursedUnder a malevolent spell
- backfireYield unintended consequences
- baitedEquipped to lure
- Faustian bargainRuinous exchange for power
- Pyrrhic victorySuccess with crippling cost
devil's bargain · contamination · harmful · toxicity · betrayal · Trojan horse · Greek gift · golden handcuffs · venom · double-edged sword · gilded cage · white elephants · fool's gold · honey trap · bitter pill · hospital pass · deaths · Catch-22
poisoned chalicesgolden opportunities
Exceptionally favorable circumstances
windfalls · godsends · boons · strokes of luck · lucky breaks
poisoned chaliceswhat you see is what you get
No deception or concealment
poisoned chalicesblessings in disguise
Misfortunes yielding unexpected benefits
diamonds in the rough · hidden gems · silver linings · gifts that keep on giving · wolves in sheep's clothing
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