submerged reef; hidden obstacle
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesnoun
submerged reef; sunken rock
neutralA specific geographical and navigational term; a major hazard to ships.
There are many submerged reefs in this sea area, so you must be very careful when navigating.
The ship sank after hitting a submerged reef.
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Ancient nautical charts would often mark the locations of submerged reefs.
noun
hidden obstacle; hidden danger; latent risk
neutralA common metaphor in both formal and informal contexts, used to describe unforeseen complications, risks, or pitfalls in plans, projects, or life situations.
The project seems to be going smoothly, but there may still be many hidden obstacles ahead.
In negotiations, the biggest hidden dangers are often the unspoken conditions.
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In the voyage of life, no one can completely avoid all hidden dangers.
Their company's merger appears to be a win-win situation, but in reality, it's full of latent risks.